better-off

[ bet-er-awf, -of ]

adjective

1. being in better circumstances, especially economically:

   Only the better-off nations can afford to send probes into space.

Word History and Origins

Origin of better-off¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Idioms and Phrases

In a more favorable position or financial circumstances. For example, They were better off flying than driving there , or They were better off than most of their neighbors . This phrase is the comparative form of well off . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

“The system at the moment assumes that students from better-off backgrounds are getting support from their parents. It’s not always true that those students do get that support,” says Kate Ogden.

From BBC

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has said he would like to see inheritance tax reformed to “ensure the better-off pay more”.

From BBC

Pressed on who would pay the higher rate, he said: "I think those people who aren't inheriting huge amounts - and that money comes primarily from their property - they would see lower inheritance tax and you pay for that by ensuring that the better-off pay more."

From BBC

Mr Sa'adu is among the better-off as some of the other men who live there have no furniture, and share sleeping mats which they roll out on the floor.

From BBC

The “better-off” answer, then, can go in multiple directions.

From Seattle Times