Welfare

/ˈwɛlfɛr/beginnernoun

Subsidized canteen thalis, pension queues, and crore-reaching schemes all belong to this noun: the state helping citizens fare well.

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Meaning

Wellbeing support by the state.

Memory trick

WEL-FARE: faring well, with the state paying part of the ticket.

Examples

1

Welfare schemes reach crores.

2

The canteen’s subsidized thali is student welfare in its tastiest form.

3

Pension backlogs mean welfare on paper but waiting lines in practice.

Synonyms

wellbeingprosperitybenefitaidsupportreliefupliftment

Antonyms

hardshipneglectadversitydeprivationmisery

Etymology

From Middle English wel faren "to fare well, travel well through life." Welfare is the state helping citizens fare well.

Usage Notes

Schemes, pensions, and safety nets: welfare state, welfare schemes, social welfare. Always name the beneficiary to keep it concrete.

Real-life contexts

1

Use in polity: "Welfare schemes must reach the last mile."

2

Use in essays: "Growth without welfare is a half-built bridge."

3

Use on campus: "The welfare fund covers emergency fees."

Common Mistakes

Welfare covers wellbeing broadly, not just cash aid; animal welfare and student welfare are standard uses. Do not confuse with warfare.

Welfare: Meaning, Examples & How to Remember It | WordFlippin