Looking for synonyms for developing countries? We’ve got you covered!
Here’s a list of other ways to say developing countries.
- Emerging economies
- Low-income countries
- Less developed countries
- Developing nations
- Third world countries
- Underdeveloped countries
- Global South
- Low and middle-income countries (LMICs)
- Majority world countries
- Transitional economies
Want to learn how to say developing countries professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.
1. Emerging Economies
This term is often used to describe countries that are in the process of rapid industrialization and experiencing higher than average growth rates. It is appropriate when discussing countries that are transitioning towards becoming more developed economies.
Example: “Many investors are looking at emerging economies for high-return opportunities.”
2. Low-Income Countries
This is used to categorize countries with a gross national income (GNI) per capita below a certain threshold defined by international organizations like the World Bank. It’s appropriate in discussions focused on economic classifications based on income.
Example: “Aid programs are specifically designed to support health initiatives in low-income countries.”
3. Less Developed Countries
This term is similar to ‘developing countries’ but emphasizes a lower level of development. It’s used in contexts discussing countries that lack in industrialization, infrastructure, and human capital.
Example: “Less developed countries often face challenges in implementing sustainable development goals.”
4. Developing Nations
A general term that refers to countries with a lower level of material well-being and economic development. It is broadly used in various contexts without focusing on specific economic indicators.
Example: “Developing nations require international cooperation to address climate change effectively.”
5. Third World Countries
Originally used during the Cold War to describe countries not aligned with the NATO or Communist blocs, it now often refers to countries with economic difficulties and poverty. However, its use is becoming less common due to its potentially pejorative connotations.
Example: “Third world countries are disproportionately affected by global economic downturns.”
6. Underdeveloped Countries
This term emphasizes a significant lack of development in terms of economic indicators, human capital, and infrastructure. It is used when highlighting the needs for basic amenities and services.
Example: “Underdeveloped countries struggle with high rates of illiteracy and poor health care access.”
7. Global South
A term that refers to countries located primarily in the Southern Hemisphere, often focusing on their geopolitical, social, and economic contexts rather than just economic indicators. It is used to address global inequalities.
Example: “The Global South is increasingly pivotal in international trade negotiations.”
8. Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs)
This classification combines both low-income and middle-income countries, as defined by the World Bank based on GNI per capita. It’s used in discussions that address a wider range of developing economies.
Example: “LMICs are at the forefront of experiencing the health impacts of climate change.”
9. Majority World Countries
A term that highlights the fact that the majority of the world’s population lives in these countries. It is used to shift the perspective from an economic focus to a demographic and social focus.
Example: “Majority world countries are leading in the adoption of mobile banking technologies.”
10. Transitional Economies
Refers to countries transitioning from centrally planned economies to market economies. It is appropriate when discussing economic reforms and the process of integration into the global economy.
Example: “Transitional economies face unique challenges in attracting foreign investment.”
