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plight

noun

/plʌɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of plight

A difficult or challenging situation or condition, typically one that involves adversity, suffering, or distress.
"The organization was established to address the plight of children living in poverty."

Detailed meaning of plight

Plight often implies a state of precariousness or trouble, where individuals or groups face significant obstacles or hardships. It can encompass a wide range of circumstances, including personal plights such as financial struggles, health crises, or emotional distress, as well as broader societal plights like poverty, inequality, or environmental crises. This term conveys a sense of concern, empathy, or a call to action, as plights often require attention, intervention, or support to alleviate suffering or address the underlying issues. Whether it's an individual's plight or a collective plight, this noun underscores the need for awareness and compassion in the face of challenging circumstances.

Example sentences containing plight

1. She found herself in a difficult plight when her car broke down in the middle of nowhere.
2. The plight of the homeless population in the city is a growing concern for local authorities.
3. The farmers' plight was exacerbated by the drought that had plagued the region for months.
4. He was moved by the plight of the refugees who had fled their war-torn country.
5. The plight of the endangered species is a global issue that requires urgent action.
6. The pandemic has highlighted the plight of many workers who are struggling to make ends meet.

History and etymology of plight

The noun 'plight' can be traced back to the Old English word 'pliht,' which was used to describe a condition or state, especially one that was problematic or challenging. This Old English term is thought to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word 'plehti,' which had a similar meaning. Interestingly, 'plight' also has ties to the Old Norse word 'plikt,' which meant a condition or state of being. Over time, 'plight' evolved to refer to difficult or challenging situations, often involving adversity, suffering, or distress. Its etymology reflects the notion of being in a particular state or condition, especially one that presents difficulties or hardships, making it an apt descriptor for such situations.

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Further usage examples of plight

1. She dedicated her life to helping those in plight and advocating for social justice.
2. The economic plight of the country has led to widespread poverty and inequality.
3. The plight of the victims of the natural disaster was heart-wrenching.
4. The novel tells the story of a young woman's plight as she navigates the challenges of life in a patriarchal society.
5. He used his platform to raise awareness about the plight of animals who are mistreated and exploited by humans.
6. Refugees endure a dire plight, seeking safety and hope in unfamiliar lands.
7. The pandemic exacerbated the world's economic plight, leaving many in financial distress.
8. Their financial plight plunged them into despair, struggling to make ends meet.
9. Conservationists strive to improve the animals' plight in the wild through preservation efforts.
10. The homeless face a challenging plight daily, seeking shelter and sustenance on the streets.
11. He empathized deeply with the plight of those suffering from hunger and poverty.
12. The organization dedicates itself to alleviating the plight of orphans worldwide.
13. The environmentalist tirelessly works to address the planet's ecological plight.
14. The hurricane worsened the residents' already dire plight, causing widespread destruction.
15. Combating poverty is crucial to improve the overall plight of marginalized communities.
16. The plight of child laborers is a global human rights issue, demanding urgent attention.
17. She has dedicated her life to helping those in dire plight, offering assistance and hope.
18. The musician's song sheds light on the harrowing plight of refugees, raising awareness.
19. Charitable organizations aim to alleviate the plight of the homeless, providing shelter and support.
20. The pandemic has brought to light the challenging plight of healthcare workers on the frontlines.
21. Donations from generous individuals can make a significant difference in the plight of the needy.
22. The pandemic's impact on mental health has become a pressing societal plight.
23. The nonprofit organization actively addresses the plight of hunger, providing food aid.
24. International aid is essential to alleviate the devastating plight of famine-stricken regions.