basic need

[/ˈbeɪsɪk niːd/]
nounpl: basic needs
necessidade básica
1. A fundamental requirement for human survival and well-being, such as food, water, shelter, or clothing
Access to clean water is a basic need for all people.
O acesso à água potável é uma necessidade básica para todas as pessoas.
2. Essential services or resources required for a decent standard of living
The government should ensure that basic needs like healthcare and education are met.
O governo deve garantir que necessidades básicas como saúde e educação sejam atendidas.
This term is widely used in both Brazilian and American contexts, particularly in discussions about poverty, social welfare, human rights, and development. In Brazil, it's frequently used in government policies and humanitarian programs. In the USA, it's common in social services, education, and policy debates regarding minimum standards of living.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
essential needfundamental requirementvital requirementprimary necessity
Antonyms / Antônimos
luxuryunnecessary itemfrivolous desire

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
necessidade básica
Standard usage across all regions of Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
necessidade básica
Commonly used in social and policy discussions
São Paulo
necessidade básica
Frequently used in economic and development contexts
Portugal
necessidade básica
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; sometimes 'necessidade fundamental'

Related Words

Maslow's hierarchy of needssubsistencesurvivalwelfarehumanitarian aid

Related Idioms & Phrases

meet basic needs
fulfill basic needs
basic needs are not being met
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