poverty level

noun

1. poverty line.

poverty level

1. A level of income above which it is possible to achieve an adequate standard of living and below which it is not. It fluctuates with the cost of living .

Notes

Because the poverty level is somewhat artificially established by the government, it can be manipulated for political ends. As with hidden unemployment , governments are often accused of establishing a poverty level that underestimates the number of poor people.

Other Words From

• pover·ty-level adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of poverty level¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Project 2025’s Medicaid chapter falsely states that the ACA “mandates that states must expand their Medicaid eligibility standards” to include all individuals with income at or below 138% of the federal poverty level.”

From Los Angeles Times

Everyday, I talk to people at the poverty level and it seems like it’s getting worse.

From BBC

Ms Flint added that without a change in government policy, a drop in fuel poverty levels was unlikely in the near future.

From BBC

About one-third lived below 200% of the federal poverty level, which is less than $55,000 per year for a family of four, according to Sears.

From Los Angeles Times

It says this would put a big dent in child poverty levels but without support, it is difficult to see how the party can deliver the change.

From BBC