Definition
To be in a state of extreme poverty; to have very little or no money.
贫困得很
Since he lost his job, his family has been on their uppers.
自从他失业后，他的家人就一直处于极度贫困的状态。
After their business failed, they were nearly on their uppers.
他们的生意失败后，他们几乎一贫如洗。
Due to the economic downturn, many families found themselves on their uppers.
由于经济衰退，许多家庭发现自己处于极度贫困的状态。