Top 56 Slang For Poverty – Meaning & Usage

Poverty is a harsh reality for many around the world, and the language we use to discuss it can vary greatly. Join us as we uncover some of the most common and impactful slang terms used to describe financial hardship. From “broke” to “skint,” we’ve got you covered with a list that sheds light on the diverse ways people express the challenges of living on a limited income. Let’s dive in and explore this important topic together.

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Broke

When someone is “broke,” it means they have no money or are financially struggling. This term is commonly used to describe someone who is experiencing poverty or financial hardship.

For example, “I can’t go out to eat tonight, I’m broke.”
A person might say, “I’m broke until payday, so I can’t afford to go shopping.”
Someone might describe their financial situation by saying, “I’ve been broke ever since I lost my job.”

2. Skint

Similar to “broke,” being “skint” means being without money or experiencing financial difficulties. This term is often used in British slang to describe someone who is struggling financially.

For instance, “I can’t go on vacation, I’m skint.”
A person might say, “I need to find a job soon, I’m completely skint.”
Someone might describe their financial situation by saying, “I’ve been skint ever since I had to pay off my student loans.”

3. Penniless

When someone is “penniless,” it means they have absolutely no money or are completely destitute. This term emphasizes the lack of funds and is often used to describe extreme poverty.

For example, “I can’t even afford a cup of coffee, I’m penniless.”
A person might say, “After losing everything in a fire, I was left penniless.”
Someone might describe their financial situation by saying, “I’ve been penniless ever since I lost my job and couldn’t find another one.”

4. Strapped

Being “strapped” refers to a situation where someone is lacking money or resources. This term can also imply being in a difficult financial position or facing financial constraints.

For instance, “I can’t afford to buy new clothes, I’m strapped for cash.”
A person might say, “I can’t go on vacation this year, I’m strapped for funds.”
Someone might describe their financial situation by saying, “I’ve been strapped ever since I had to pay for unexpected medical expenses.”

5. Hard up

When someone is “hard up,” it means they are experiencing financial difficulty or hardship. This term highlights the challenging circumstances and lack of financial resources.

For example, “I can’t afford to go out to dinner, I’m hard up.”
A person might say, “I had to borrow money from a friend because I’m hard up.”
Someone might describe their financial situation by saying, “I’ve been hard up ever since I lost my job and couldn’t find another one.”

6. Flat broke

This phrase is used to describe someone who has no money at all. It emphasizes the idea of being completely financially depleted.

For example, “I can’t go out to dinner tonight, I’m flat broke.”
A person might say, “I’m flat broke until payday, so I can’t afford to buy anything.”
Another might ask, “Do you have any spare change? I’m flat broke and need to catch the bus.”

7. Down and out

This phrase is used to describe someone who is in a state of extreme poverty and lacks the means to improve their situation. It conveys a sense of hopelessness and despair.

For instance, “After losing his job, he was completely down and out.”
A person might say, “I used to have a comfortable life, but now I’m down and out.”
Another might sympathize, “It’s hard to imagine what it’s like to be down and out and have no one to turn to.”

8. Dirt poor

This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely poor and has very little to no money or resources. It emphasizes the idea of living in destitution or extreme poverty.

For example, “They grew up in a dirt poor neighborhood.”
A person might say, “I come from a dirt poor family, so I had to work hard to improve my situation.”
Another might comment, “It’s heartbreaking to see people living in such dirt poor conditions.”

9. Destitute

This word is used to describe someone who is extremely poor and lacks the basic necessities of life. It conveys a sense of extreme poverty and desperation.

For instance, “After losing everything in a fire, they were left destitute.”
A person might say, “The economic crisis has left many families destitute.”
Another might ask, “How can we help those who are destitute and struggling to survive?”

10. Impoverished

This word is used to describe someone or a community that is living in poverty or experiencing extreme financial hardship. It conveys a sense of being deprived and lacking basic resources.

For example, “They come from an impoverished background.”
A person might say, “The government should do more to support impoverished communities.”
Another might discuss, “The cycle of poverty can be difficult to escape for those who are impoverished.”

11. Bankrupt

Refers to a person or business that is unable to pay their debts and has been legally declared as such. It often implies a complete lack of financial resources.

For example, “After the economic crisis, many businesses went bankrupt.”
A person might say, “I lost everything and ended up bankrupt.”
In a discussion about financial struggles, someone might mention, “Many people file for bankruptcy as a last resort.”

12. Hand to mouth

This phrase describes a financial situation where a person’s income is just enough to cover their basic needs, leaving no room for savings or discretionary spending.

For instance, “Many families are living hand to mouth due to low wages.”
A person might say, “I can’t afford to save because I’m always living hand to mouth.”
In a discussion about financial insecurity, someone might mention, “Living hand to mouth is a stressful way to live.”

13. Living in the red

Refers to a financial situation where a person or business consistently spends more money than they earn, resulting in accumulated debt. The term “red” refers to negative numbers typically shown in red ink on financial statements.

For example, “Due to excessive spending, he’s been living in the red for years.”
A person might say, “I need to cut back on expenses to stop living in the red.”
In a discussion about financial management, someone might mention, “Living in the red can lead to long-term financial problems.”

14. Struggling

This term describes the act of experiencing financial hardship or difficulty. It can refer to a temporary or ongoing situation where a person is having trouble meeting their financial obligations.

For instance, “Many families are struggling to make ends meet in the current economy.”
A person might say, “I’m struggling to pay my bills this month.”
In a discussion about poverty, someone might mention, “Struggling is a common experience for those living in poverty.”

15. On the breadline

This phrase is used to describe a person or family who is living at or below the poverty line. It implies a lack of basic necessities and a constant struggle to meet basic needs.

For example, “After losing their jobs, they found themselves on the breadline.”
A person might say, “I’ve been on the breadline for years, barely making enough to survive.”
In a discussion about social inequality, someone might mention, “Many people are forced to live on the breadline due to systemic issues.”

16. In the poorhouse

This phrase refers to being extremely poor and having no money or resources. It originated from the concept of poorhouses, which were government-run institutions where the destitute could live and work in exchange for food and shelter.

For example, someone might say, “After losing his job, he ended up in the poorhouse.”
In a discussion about poverty, a person might mention, “Many families were forced into the poorhouse during the Great Depression.”
Another might use the phrase figuratively, saying, “I’m so broke, I feel like I’m living in the poorhouse.”

17. Skid row

Skid row is a term used to describe a specific area of a city or town that is known for its poverty, homelessness, and social issues. It is often characterized by dilapidated buildings, drug use, and a high concentration of homeless shelters.

For instance, someone might say, “He ended up on skid row after losing his job and home.”
In a conversation about urban poverty, a person might mention, “Many cities have initiatives to address the issues faced by residents of skid row.”
Another might talk about the challenges faced by those living on skid row, saying, “Access to basic necessities like food and healthcare is limited for people on skid row.”

18. Threadbare

Threadbare is an adjective used to describe something, typically clothing or fabric, that is worn-out, frayed, and in poor condition due to extensive use or age. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a person or situation that lacks resources or is in a state of poverty.

For example, someone might say, “He wore a threadbare jacket that had seen better days.”
In a discussion about poverty, a person might mention, “Many families can only afford threadbare clothing for their children.”
Another might use the term metaphorically, saying, “After years of financial struggles, their relationship was left threadbare.”

19. Pinched

Pinched is a slang term used to describe someone who is experiencing financial difficulties or is in a state of poverty. It implies a sense of being financially stretched or constrained.

For instance, someone might say, “After losing her job, she was really pinched for money.”
In a conversation about personal finances, a person might mention, “I’m feeling a bit pinched this month, so I need to cut back on expenses.”
Another might talk about the impact of a struggling economy, saying, “Many families are feeling pinched due to rising costs and stagnant wages.”

20. Penurious

Penurious is an adjective used to describe someone who is extremely poor, impoverished, or lacking in resources. It implies a state of extreme financial hardship.

For example, someone might say, “After losing everything in a natural disaster, they were left penurious.”
In a discussion about global poverty, a person might mention, “Millions of people around the world live in penurious conditions.”
Another might use the term to describe a dire situation, saying, “The economic crisis left the country in a penurious state.”

21. Without a pot to piss in

This phrase is used to describe someone who is in a state of extreme poverty, to the point where they don’t even have basic necessities.

For example, “He’s without a pot to piss in, living on the streets.”
A person might say, “I grew up without a pot to piss in, but I worked hard to improve my situation.”
Another might comment, “It’s heartbreaking to see people without a pot to piss in, struggling to survive.”

22. On the rocks

This phrase is used to describe someone who is experiencing financial difficulties or is on the verge of financial ruin.

For instance, “After losing his job, he found himself on the rocks.”
A person might say, “I’m worried about my friend. He’s been on the rocks ever since his business failed.”
Another might comment, “Being on the rocks can be a stressful and uncertain time.”

23. Living hand to mouth

This phrase is used to describe someone who is barely able to meet their basic needs and is living paycheck to paycheck.

For example, “She’s been living hand to mouth ever since she lost her job.”
A person might say, “I grew up in a household where we were always living hand to mouth.”
Another might comment, “Living hand to mouth can be incredibly stressful and leaves no room for saving or planning for the future.”

24. In the red

This phrase is used to describe someone who has negative financial balances or owes money.

For instance, “After maxing out his credit cards, he found himself in the red.”
A person might say, “I’m struggling to pay off my student loans and I’m constantly in the red.”
Another might comment, “Being in the red can feel overwhelming and make it difficult to get ahead.”

25. Tight

This term is used to describe someone who is experiencing financial difficulties or is struggling to make ends meet.

For example, “Times are tough and money is tight.”
A person might say, “I’m on a tight budget right now, so I can’t afford to go out.”
Another might comment, “Living on a tight budget requires careful planning and prioritizing expenses.”

26. Cash-strapped

This term is used to describe someone who is experiencing a lack of money or financial resources. It implies that the person is facing difficulty in meeting their financial obligations.

For example, “I can’t afford to go on vacation this year, I’m cash-strapped.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling cash-strapped after paying my bills this month.”
In a discussion about budgeting, someone might mention, “Being cash-strapped can be a source of stress and anxiety.”

27. Poverty-stricken

This phrase is used to describe someone or a community that is living in extreme poverty, lacking basic necessities and struggling to meet their daily needs.

For instance, “The poverty-stricken neighborhood lacks access to clean water and proper sanitation.”
In a discussion about global poverty, someone might say, “Many countries in Africa are still poverty-stricken.”
A news article might report, “The poverty-stricken family was unable to afford healthcare for their sick child.”

28. Needy

This term is used to describe someone who is in a state of need, lacking the necessary resources or support to meet their basic needs.

For example, “The charity provides assistance to the needy.”
Someone might say, “I volunteered at a shelter for the needy.”
In a discussion about social inequality, a person might argue, “We need to address the needs of the needy and provide them with opportunities for upward mobility.”

29. Hand-to-mouth

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is barely able to cover their basic expenses and relies on each paycheck to meet their immediate needs.

For instance, “Due to high rent and bills, I’m living hand-to-mouth.”
A person might say, “I’m tired of living hand-to-mouth and not being able to save any money.”
In a discussion about financial stability, someone might mention, “Living hand-to-mouth can be incredibly stressful and leave no room for unexpected expenses.”

30. Down on one’s luck

This phrase is used to describe someone who is going through a period of unfortunate events or bad luck, often resulting in financial hardship.

For example, “After losing their job and facing medical bills, they’re really down on their luck.”
A person might say, “I’ve been down on my luck lately, everything seems to be going wrong.”
In a discussion about empathy, someone might mention, “It’s important to offer support to those who are down on their luck and help them get back on their feet.”

31. Strung out

This term is often used to describe someone who is in a state of extreme poverty or financial distress. It can also refer to someone who is dependent on drugs or other substances and therefore struggles financially.

For example, “Ever since he lost his job, he’s been strung out and can’t make ends meet.”
In a conversation about financial struggles, someone might say, “I’ve been strung out for months and it’s getting harder to survive.”
A person discussing the impact of addiction on poverty might mention, “Many people who are strung out end up in a cycle of poverty and substance abuse.”

32. Struggling financially

This phrase is used to describe the condition of facing financial difficulties or struggling to make ends meet. It implies a lack of financial stability or resources.

For instance, “I’ve been struggling financially ever since I lost my job.”
In a discussion about the economy, someone might say, “Many families are currently struggling financially due to the pandemic.”
A person sharing their story of financial hardship might say, “I’ve been struggling financially for years, but I’m determined to overcome it.”

33. Tight on funds

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone has a shortage of money or is facing financial constraints.

For example, “I can’t go out tonight, I’m tight on funds.”
In a conversation about budgeting, someone might say, “I need to be careful with my spending because I’m tight on funds.”
A person discussing their financial situation might mention, “I’ve been tight on funds lately, so I’m looking for ways to save money.”

34. Moneyless

This term is used to describe a state of complete poverty or lack of financial resources. It implies a complete absence of money.

For instance, “After losing his job, he became completely moneyless.”
In a discussion about homelessness, someone might say, “Many people living on the streets are moneyless.”
A person sharing their experience of financial struggle might mention, “I’ve been moneyless for months and it’s a constant struggle to survive.”

35. Financially challenged

This phrase is used to describe the condition of having financial challenges or limitations. It suggests a lack of financial stability or resources.

For example, “I come from a financially challenged background, but I’m working hard to improve my situation.”
In a conversation about personal finance, someone might say, “Many young adults are financially challenged due to student loan debt.”
A person discussing their financial struggles might mention, “I’ve been financially challenged for years, but I’m determined to overcome it.”

36. In dire straits

This phrase is used to describe someone who is in a very difficult or desperate situation.

For example, “After losing his job, John found himself in dire straits and struggling to pay his bills.”
A person might say, “I’m in dire straits right now and can’t afford to buy groceries.”
In a discussion about financial struggles, someone might comment, “Many families are currently in dire straits due to the economic downturn.”

37. Barely scraping by

This phrase is used to describe someone who is barely managing to meet their basic needs or make ends meet.

For instance, “With the rising cost of living, many people are barely scraping by.”
A person might say, “I’m working two jobs just to scrape by and pay my rent.”
In a conversation about financial hardships, someone might mention, “I know what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck and barely scrape by.”

38. Living below the poverty line

This phrase is used to describe someone whose income is below the poverty line, which is the minimum level of income deemed necessary to achieve a basic standard of living.

For example, “According to recent statistics, millions of people in this country are living below the poverty line.”
A person might say, “Growing up, my family was always living below the poverty line.”
In a discussion about income inequality, someone might comment, “It’s a shame that so many people are forced to live below the poverty line.”

39. Hand-to-mouth existence

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone’s income is just enough to cover their immediate needs, with no extra money for savings or emergencies.

For instance, “After losing his job, Tom had to live a hand-to-mouth existence for several months.”
A person might say, “I’m tired of living a hand-to-mouth existence and never being able to get ahead.”
In a conversation about financial struggles, someone might mention, “Many people are stuck in a hand-to-mouth existence due to low wages and high living costs.”

40. Pinching pennies

This phrase is used to describe someone who is trying to save money by being very careful with their spending.

For example, “Ever since she lost her job, Sarah has been pinching pennies to make ends meet.”
A person might say, “I’m pinching pennies right now so I can save up for a vacation.”
In a discussion about budgeting, someone might comment, “Pinching pennies is a necessary skill when you’re living on a tight budget.”

41. Without a dime

This phrase is used to describe someone who has no money at all. It emphasizes the person’s lack of financial resources.

For example, “After losing his job, he was without a dime and couldn’t afford to pay his bills.”
A person might say, “I can’t go out tonight, I’m without a dime.”
In a conversation about financial struggles, someone might mention, “I’ve been without a dime for months now.”

42. Struggling to make ends meet

This phrase is used to describe someone who is having a hard time covering their basic living expenses with their current income. It implies a constant struggle to make financial ends meet.

For instance, “Ever since the company downsized, many employees have been struggling to make ends meet.”
A person might say, “I have two jobs and I’m still struggling to make ends meet.”
In a discussion about the rising cost of living, someone might mention, “Many families are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet.”

43. Money strapped

This phrase is used to describe someone who is experiencing a shortage of money or is in a financially tight situation.

For example, “I can’t afford to go on vacation this year, I’m money strapped.”
A person might say, “I need to find a second job, I’m really money strapped right now.”
In a conversation about budgeting, someone might mention, “I have to be careful with my spending, I’m money strapped.”

44. Financially disadvantaged

This term is used to describe someone who lacks the financial resources or opportunities that others have. It highlights the person’s disadvantage in terms of their financial situation.

For instance, “Children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds often face additional challenges in accessing quality education.”
A person might say, “Coming from a financially disadvantaged family, I had to work extra hard to achieve my goals.”
In a discussion about social inequality, someone might mention, “We need to address the systemic barriers faced by financially disadvantaged individuals.”

45. In financial hardship

This phrase is used to describe someone who is facing significant financial difficulties or struggles.

For example, “After the unexpected medical expenses, they found themselves in financial hardship.”
A person might say, “Losing my job put me in financial hardship, and it’s been tough to recover.”
In a conversation about personal finance, someone might mention, “Many people are one emergency away from experiencing financial hardship.”

46. Economically disadvantaged

This term refers to individuals or groups who lack the financial resources or opportunities to achieve a certain standard of living. It emphasizes the economic challenges faced by these individuals.

For example, “Many children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds struggle to access quality education.”
A discussion about social inequality might include the statement, “Those who are economically disadvantaged often face limited job prospects.”
A news article might discuss, “The government’s efforts to provide assistance to economically disadvantaged communities.”

47. In a financial bind

This phrase describes a situation where someone is experiencing financial problems or constraints. It implies being in a tight spot financially and needing to find a solution.

For instance, “I’m in a financial bind right now and can’t afford to pay my rent.”
A person seeking advice might ask, “What can I do if I find myself in a financial bind?”
A friend might offer support by saying, “I’m here for you if you ever need help getting out of a financial bind.”

48. Living in indigence

This term describes a state of extreme poverty, where individuals or families lack the basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, and clothing. It emphasizes the dire circumstances faced by those living in indigence.

For example, “Many people in developing countries are living in indigence and struggle to meet their daily needs.”
A discussion about social welfare might mention, “Efforts should be made to alleviate the suffering of those living in indigence.”
A news article might highlight, “The government’s failure to address the needs of those living in indigence.”

49. Without a penny to one’s name

This phrase describes a situation where someone has no money at all. It emphasizes the lack of financial resources and suggests a state of extreme poverty.

For instance, “After losing his job, he was without a penny to his name.”
A person discussing their financial struggles might say, “I’ve been without a penny to my name for months.”
A friend might express concern by asking, “Are you really without a penny to your name? Can I help in any way?”

50. In a state of financial crisis

This phrase describes a situation where someone is going through a period of extreme financial hardship or instability. It implies a state of emergency and emphasizes the severity of the financial problems.

For example, “Many families are in a state of financial crisis due to job losses and mounting debt.”
A discussion about the economy might mention, “The country is currently in a state of financial crisis, with high unemployment rates.”
A news article might report, “The company is facing a state of financial crisis and may need to declare bankruptcy.”

51. Money woes

This term refers to the problems or troubles someone has with their finances. It suggests that the person is experiencing financial hardship or struggling to manage their money.

For example, “I’m dealing with some serious money woes right now.”
Someone might say, “I can’t go out to eat tonight, I’m currently facing money woes.”
Another person might express their frustration by saying, “These money woes are really putting a strain on my life.”

52. Tight budget

This phrase describes a situation where someone has a small amount of money available to spend. It implies that the person needs to be careful and conscious of their spending in order to make ends meet.

For instance, “I’m on a tight budget this month, so I can’t afford to go shopping.”
Someone might say, “I have to stick to a tight budget if I want to save any money.”
Another person might explain, “Living on a tight budget means making sacrifices and prioritizing needs over wants.”

53. Financially strapped

This slang term suggests that someone is experiencing financial hardship or struggling to make ends meet. It implies that the person is financially tight or strapped for cash.

For example, “I’m financially strapped right now, so I can’t afford to go on vacation.”
Someone might say, “I’m feeling financially strapped after losing my job.”
Another person might express their frustration by saying, “Being financially strapped is incredibly stressful and overwhelming.”

54. Scrimping and saving

This phrase describes the act of reducing expenses and saving money in order to make ends meet. It implies that the person is being frugal and making sacrifices to improve their financial situation.

For instance, “I’ve been scrimping and saving to afford a down payment on a house.”
Someone might say, “Scrimping and saving is necessary when you’re living on a tight budget.”
Another person might explain, “Scrimping and saving requires discipline and the ability to prioritize needs over wants.”

55. Living in penury

This term describes a state of extreme poverty or destitution. It implies that someone is living in a state of severe financial hardship, struggling to meet their basic needs.

For example, “Many people around the world are living in penury.”
Someone might say, “Living in penury means constantly worrying about where your next meal will come from.”
Another person might express their empathy by saying, “No one should have to experience the hardships of living in penury.”

56. Struggling to get by

This phrase refers to individuals or families who are facing significant financial difficulties and are barely able to meet their basic needs.

For example, “Many families in this neighborhood are struggling to get by on minimum wage.”
A person discussing poverty might say, “I’ve been struggling to get by ever since I lost my job.”
In a conversation about economic inequality, someone might mention, “It’s heartbreaking to see so many people struggling to get by while the rich get richer.”