Usage Note: disadvantage

disadvantaged
adjective

• (of people) not having the benefits, such as enough money and a healthy social situation, that others have, and therefore having less opportunity to be successful.
• lacking money or opportunities

1. Head Start is an educational program for disadvantaged preschool children.
2. The scheme received backing from millionaire philanthropist Peter Lampi, who has also been prominent in the bid to recruit disadvantaged children to university.
3. This non profit organization provides hair prosthesis to disadvantaged children age 18 and younger.
4. This distribution charity gives disadvantaged families donated vehicles.
5. Some of the local programs offer disadvantaged women funding options.

at a disadvantage
phrase

• in a situation in which you are less likely to succeed than others
• in an unfavorable position

1. The strength of the company puts competitors at a great disadvantage.
2. The team was at a disadvantage because their captain had been sent off.
3. She felt that being so young put her at a disadvantage for the executive position.
4. The new rules may put European farmers at a disadvantage .
5. His inability to speak English puts him at a disadvantage when he attends international conferences.