welfare
Meaning: The health, happiness, and well-being of a person; government support
Welfare refers to the general health, happiness, and prosperity of a person or group. It also describes government programmes designed to help people in need, such as those who are unemployed, disabled, or elderly. The 'welfare state' refers to a system where government provides for citizens' basic needs.
Examples
- The organisation promotes the welfare of children. 该组织促进儿童福利。La organización promueve el bienestar de los niños.その組織は子供たちの福祉を促進しています。그 단체는 아동 복지를 증진하고 있습니다.
- Many families depend on welfare benefits. 许多家庭依赖社会福利。Muchas familias dependen de las prestaciones sociales.多くの家庭が福祉給付に頼っています。많은 가정이 복지 수당에 의존하고 있습니다.
- Animal welfare laws protect pets from cruelty. 动物福利法保护宠物免受虐待。Las leyes de bienestar animal protegen a las mascotas de la crueldad.動物福祉法はペットを虐待から守っています。동물 복지법은 반려동물을 학대로부터 보호합니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Middle English 'wel faren' meaning 'to fare well, get along well', compound of 'well' + 'fare' (to go, travel, get on). The sense of 'government provision for citizens' developed in the early 20th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
Story & Trivia
The word 'welfare' comes from the phrase 'well faring' - literally doing well on life's journey. The concept of the welfare state emerged in Britain after World War II, when the government committed to caring for citizens 'from cradle to grave.'
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