poor relation
noun/ˌpɔː rɪˈleɪʃn/, /ˌpʊə rɪˈleɪʃn/
/ˌpʊr rɪˈleɪʃn/, /ˌpɔːr rɪˈleɪʃn/
- something that is not treated with as much respect as other similar things because it is not thought to be as good, important or successful
- The short story is often considered to be a poor relation to the novel.
Extra ExamplesTopics Difficulty and failurec2- Our branch of the family was always regarded as the poor relations.
- He believes that interior design is the poor relation of architecture.
- Other sparkling wines are often considered the poor relations of champagne.
Definitions on the go
Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.
Check pronunciation:
poor relation