low pay

[/loʊ peɪ/]
noun
salário baixo
1. inadequate or insufficient wages or compensation for work performed
Many workers in the service industry complain about low pay.
Muitos trabalhadores do setor de serviços reclamam do salário baixo.
2. compensation that is below the average or minimum living wage standards
Low pay is a major issue affecting job satisfaction and employee retention.
O salário baixo é um problema importante que afeta a satisfação no trabalho e a retenção de funcionários.
Low pay is a significant socioeconomic issue in both Brazil and the USA, particularly affecting service workers, educators, and healthcare workers. In Brazil, it's often discussed in the context of informal economy workers and minimum wage debates. In the USA, the discussion centers on the federal minimum wage and living wage movements, particularly in major cities like New York. The term reflects broader concerns about income inequality and workers' rights in both countries.
NYC Slang
chump change (when referring to the amount), nickel and diming
Synonyms / Sinônimos
low wagesmeager compensationinadequate salaryminimum wagepittance
Antonyms / Antônimos
high paygenerous compensationcompetitive salarylucrative wages

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
salário baixo
Most common and standard expression across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
salário apertado
Colloquial variant meaning tight/constrained salary
São Paulo
salário baixo / remuneração baixa
Both formal and informal usage in business contexts
Portugal
salário baixo / vencimento baixo
Vencimento is the more formal Portuguese (European) term for salary

Related Words

wage gapsalary negotiationcost of livingincome inequalityminimum wagecompensation package

Related Idioms & Phrases

barely scraping by
living paycheck to paycheck
not worth your salt
tightening your belt
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