Word
poorest
Phoneticspoor·est, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpuɹɪst/
UK/pˈɔːɹəst/
Definition
adj. having the least amount of money or resources compared to everyone else in a group.
adj. the superlative form of 'poor'; describes the state of having the lowest level of wealth, resources, or quality within a specific set.
Examples
“This is one of the poorest neighborhoods in the city.”
“The government is launching a new initiative to provide better healthcare to the poorest members of society.”
“Statistical data suggests that the poorest regions often suffer most from environmental degradation due to a lack of infrastructure and political leverage.”
Examples
simple
“This is one of the poorest neighborhoods in the city.”
contextual
“The government is launching a new initiative to provide better healthcare to the poorest members of society.”
complex
“Statistical data suggests that the poorest regions often suffer most from environmental degradation due to a lack of infrastructure and political leverage.”
Usage
Superlative form; typically preceded by the definite article 'the'.
Pitfall
the most poorest
the poorest
Poorest is already a superlative; adding 'most' is a double superlative error.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
- Updated
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