precarity

American  

[pri-kair-i-tee] / prɪˈkɛər ɪ ti /

noun

1. a state of existence in which material provision and psychological wellness are adversely affected by a lack of regular or secure income.

   The precarity that defines this socially vulnerable demographic cannot be ignored.

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Usage

What is precarity? Precarity is a state of existence in which someone’s mental health or financial security is out of their control because they don’t have a regular income.A person who cannot find regular work will have a hard time paying their bills. Equally, this could affect their mental health, causing anxiety, worry, anger, and other negative emotions. Someone in this situation is in a precarious, or uncertain, position. They are experiencing precarity.Precarity can also be used to describe businesses and financial markets. For example, if you want to invest in a public company, but the company’s market is somewhat stagnant, your investment might be described as precarious and the market as filled with precarity.Example: In my neighborhood, a lot of people experience precarity and are often looking for work.

Etymology

Origin of precarity

First recorded in 1955–60; precar(ious) ( def. ) + -ity ( def. )

Example Sentences

The repercussions of the shifting landscape in these cities worsened for the local population during the Covid-19 pandemic, “highlighting the housing precarity faced by vulnerable social groups,” the report said.

From Barron's

Announced in June of 2021, the deal came after healthcare products shortages during the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the precarity and weakness of the healthcare supply chain.

From Barron's

Indeed, in a follow-up post he redefined his argument as applying to “the hidden precarity for many American families.”

From Los Angeles Times

Precarity was part of life—after each project, he would drive his van to another town, another contract—and so was sacrificing family time.

From The Wall Street Journal

Such precarity, Sweet says, keeps us working.

From The Wall Street Journal