While both "poor" and "impoverished" describe a lack of money, there's a nuance in meaning that's useful to understand. "Poor" is a more general term referring to someone who has limited financial resources. They may struggle financially, but they might still have access to basic necessities like food and shelter. "Impoverished," on the other hand, suggests a more severe and widespread deprivation. Impoverished individuals often lack the basic necessities of life, such as food, clean water, shelter, and healthcare. It implies a state of extreme poverty.

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference:

• Poor: "She comes from a poor family, but they always made sure she had a good education." (Meaning: Her family didn't have much money, but they prioritized her education.)

• Impoverished: "The impoverished community lacked access to clean water and adequate healthcare." (Meaning: The community experienced severe lack of resources crucial for living.)

• Poor: "They were poor, but they were happy." (Meaning: They lacked financial resources, but they found joy in life.)

• Impoverished: "The war left many families impoverished and without homes." (Meaning: The war resulted in extreme poverty and homelessness for many.)

Notice that "impoverished" often describes a situation caused by external factors like war, natural disasters, or economic crises, while "poor" can be a more general, long-term condition. While the two words are often used interchangeably in informal settings, understanding the nuances allows for more precise communication.

Happy learning!