have-nots; those who do not possess
A set phrase contrasting with 持てる者 (the haves). Often used in economic, social, or literary contexts to refer to people lacking wealth, resources, or a particular quality.
Antonyms: 持てる者
The gap between the have-nots and the haves is widening.
the haves; those who have
From 持つ (to have) in its classical negative attributive form 持たざる (not having) + 者 (person). The construction follows a classical pattern, but the phrase is used in modern Japanese as a set expression.