In English, the words "poor" and "impoverished" are often confused, especially by teenagers learning the language. While both relate to a lack of wealth, they have distinct meanings and implications. "Poor" is a general term referring to a lack of material possessions or resources. "Impoverished", on the other hand, implies a more severe and often prolonged state of destitution. It suggests a significant loss of resources, often due to specific events or circumstances.

Here are some examples:

"He is poor." -> "Egli è povero." "She is struggling to make ends meet because of her poor family background." -> "Sta lottando per arrivare a fine mese a causa delle sue povere origini familiari." "The village has been impoverished by years of drought." -> "Il villaggio è stato impoverito da anni di siccità." "The war has impoverished many families." -> "La guerra ha impoverito molte famiglie."

"Poor" can also be used in a figurative sense, such as "a poor excuse" or "poor health." In these cases, it describes something lacking in quality or merit. In these contexts, "impoverished" is not used.

"His poor excuse didn't convince anyone." -> "La sua cattiva scusa non convinse nessuno." "The team showed poor performance in the match." -> "La squadra ha mostrato una scarsa prestazione nella partita."

Happy learning!