Underprivileged: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS

In the IELTS exam, you have to present arguments about social justice or development in the essays or the speaking module. In such scenarios, the word of the day ‘underprivileged’ comes in handy as it adds depth and accuracy to your responses. However, just adding it to your IELTS vocabulary words list for Band 8 or 9 might not be enough if you are unable to use it in correct contexts.

So, in this blog post, we will explore the meaning, origin, history, and proper usage of the term ‘underprivileged’ within the context of the IELTS exam, solidifying our understanding through practical exercises.

Meaning of Underprivileged 

• Pronunciation: /ˌʌndərˈprɪvəlɪdʒd/ (sounds like uhn·duh·pri·vuh·luhjd)

According to the Oxford Dictionary, ‘underprivileged’ means ‘not having the advantages or opportunities that other people have’, and Merriam-Webster refers to it as ‘deprived of basic opportunities and comforts of life’. 

So, the word generally refers to individuals or groups who do not have the same economic, social, or educational advantages as others. It is commonly used in sociology, development studies, and public policy discussions.

History and Origin of ‘Underprivileged’

‘Underprivileged’ is a relatively modern word that emerged from social and economic discourse. The term grew in popularity during the 19th and 20th centuries as societies began addressing systemic inequalities.

The word comes from the prefix ‘under-’ meaning ‘below or insufficient’, combined with ‘privileged’, which stems from the Latin ‘privilegium’ meaning ‘a special advantage or right’.

It originally described people ‘having fewer advantages than normal’. The usage expanded during social reform movements to highlight systemic disadvantages faced by certain groups. The rise of industrialisation made the struggles of underprivileged workers more visible.

Usage & Examples of Underprivileged

The word ‘underprivileged’ is widely used in academic writing, social discussions, and IELTS essays to describe groups lacking basic opportunities and resources. We can now examine several examples of how the word is used in a variety of scenarios.

• Local authorities are paying little attention to the underprivileged community group.
• Children from those educationally underprivileged sections virtually have no opportunity to pursue higher degrees.
• Deliberate actions have been taken to provide equal health care for the underprivileged.
• Many organisations run programmes to provide scholarships for underprivileged students.
• Improving healthcare access for underprivileged communities should be a global priority.

IELTS Usage of ‘Underprivileged’

‘Underprivileged’ is especially valuable in IELTS Speaking and Writing Task 2, where social issues, inequality, and development are common topics. It helps convey seriousness and awareness of global challenges.

IELTS Speaking Part 3

• Questions: How can governments support underprivileged people?
• Sample Answer: Governments can support underprivileged citizens by improving access to healthcare, quality education, and employment opportunities. These areas form the foundation for long-term development. Additionally, targeted welfare programmes ensure that vulnerable groups receive timely assistance. Such measures can significantly reduce inequality and encourage social mobility.

IELTS Writing Task 2

• Topic: What are the advantages and disadvantages of having uniforms at school?
• Answer Excerpt: The fact that school uniforms are compulsory in some parts of the world but play an insignificant role somewhere else somehow proves that uniforms don’t always have beneficial impacts. On the one hand, uniforms create a sense of equality and unity among students regardless of their social backgrounds. Whether they are from underprivileged families or come from money, students would not be discriminated by the way they dress. 

Synonyms of Underprivileged

In the table, you will find some close synonyms for IELTS Writing and Speaking of the word ‘underprivileged’, each explained with a sample sentence.

Antonyms of Underprivileged

Check out the table given below to learn some antonyms of the word ‘underprivileged’ to boost your IELTS vocabulary.

Exercise to Master the Meaning of Underprivileged

Please complete the exercise that follows in order to reinforce your understanding of the concept related to the word ‘underprivileged’.

1 Which of the following is a commonly used collocation with ‘underprivileged’?

A Underprivileged architecture

BUnderprivileged cuisine

C Underprivileged communities

D Underprivileged rainfall

2 Which word is the closest synonym of ‘underprivileged’ in a social-policy context?

A Affluent

B Disadvantaged

C Autonomous

D Prestigious

3 Choose the sentence with incorrect usage of ‘underprivileged’:

A The underprivileged restaurant offered luxury meals at high prices.

B Medical camps were set up in underprivileged regions lacking basic healthcare.

C The scholarship was created to help students from underprivileged backgrounds. 

D Several NGOs aim to empower underprivileged women through training programs.

4 Which situation BEST represents the meaning of ‘underprivileged’?

A A community with limited access to clean water, education, and healthcare.

B A school that charges extremely high fees and has selective entry.

C A neighbourhood where residents earn above-average salaries.

D A family choosing not to spend money on luxuries despite having savings.

5 In which sentence is ‘underprivileged’ used most accurately?

A The underprivileged scientist funded his own million-dollar research project.

B The tour guide explained the underprivileged architecture of the palace.

C She bought an underprivileged brand of perfume online.

D The charity focuses on improving literacy among underprivileged children.

Answer Keys

In conclusion, the word ‘underprivileged’ is essential for discussions related to inequality, social welfare, and economic development. By practising this term in different contexts, you can communicate sensitive issues with greater clarity and accuracy. So, look into useful resources & websites for IELTS vocabulary and update your vocabulary for the IELTS exam.

Useful Links:

• Ragamuffin - IELTS Word of the Day for Speaking & Writing
• Conspicuous: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS
• Welfare – Word of the Day for IELTS Writing & Speaking
• Poverty and Social Issues (Part 3): Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS
• Check Your English Vocabulary for IELTS Exam Free PDF
• Advanced Grammar for IELTS: Common Adverb+Adjective Collocations