The key difference between absolute and relative poverty is that absolute poverty means a lack of the very basics necessary for survival, while relative poverty refers to having fewer resources or a lower income than the societal average, affecting one's ability to live an average standard of living.
The difference between absolute poverty and relative poverty involves the degree and type of economic deprivation. Absolute poverty occurs when individuals lack the basic necessities required for survival, such as food, clean water, shelter, and healthcare. An example of this is when people live on less than 1.90 U.S dollars per day, a condition that threatens their day-to-day survival.
In contrast, relative poverty is measured against the living standards of a society at a given time. Someone experiencing relative poverty may be able to afford basic necessities but still falls short of the average standard of living, thereby unable to live the lifestyle of the average person in their country. For instance, a family might be considered relatively poor if their income is 50% less than the median income of their society, which can affect their access to cultural activities, education, and a secure living environment.
So, essential resources for survival, whereas relative poverty indicates a comparative disadvantage in terms of living standards within a society.