# underprivileged

/ˈəndɝˈpɹɪvɫədʒd/ (US) · /ˌʌndəpɹˈɪvɪlɪdʒd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/underprivileged
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

describing people who do not have the same opportunities or resources as others in their society. You use this to talk about groups that are often treated unfairly or ignored.

For teachers: lacking the usual social or economic advantages; suffering from a lack of access to resources or opportunities. Often used to describe marginalized groups or individuals in a specific context.

## Examples

- The school provides extra support for underprivileged students.
- The charity focuses on improving the living conditions of underprivileged families in the city's poorest neighborhoods.
- Sociologists argue that systemic barriers continue to prevent underprivileged communities from accessing the same quality of healthcare and education as their more affluent counterparts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.