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

It’s not to drag the relatively better-off down to the bottom, but to allow more people to pull themselves up.

From Slate

As Sherry Glied, a health economist, New York University professor, and pointed critic of health savings accounts, wrote in 2022: “HSAs are a tax advantage for better-off people.”

From Slate

Coming from a relatively better-off family, Seok lived close to the border with China and had access to K-pop and K-drama through smuggled USBs and SD cards.

From BBC

Consultant Roger Atkins claims the current policy is “divisive”, because it “favours better-off people who can charge at home on their driveways”.

From BBC

He said all pensioners would receive the benefit – which is currently either £200 or £300 – without having to apply, but that better-off Scots would pay some of it back.

From BBC