Gentility without ability is worse than plain beggary.

Here, “ability” uses an older sense of financial means. The saying argues that genteel status or a refined way of living, when unsupported by money, may be harder to maintain than open poverty.

The saying criticizes the expense of preserving an elevated social image when resources do not match it. Its comparison with beggary reflects class-conscious assumptions and may sound contemptuous today, rather than endorsing those assumptions.

Use it to criticize an expensive display of social standing that a person or household cannot afford. Because its contrast with beggary is sharply class-laden and potentially contemptuous, avoid applying it to a real person.