subsistence Definition
- 1the state or fact of having just enough money or food to stay alive
- 2the action or fact of maintaining or supporting oneself at a minimum level
Using subsistence: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "subsistence" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The villagers lived in subsistence farming.
Example
The family was living on subsistence wages.
Example
The refugees were provided with subsistence allowances.
Example
The company provided subsistence for the workers during the strike.
subsistence Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for subsistence
Phrases with subsistence
farming that provides enough food for the farmer and their family but not enough for sale
Example
The region relies on subsistence agriculture for its food supply.
the minimum amount of income or resources necessary to maintain a basic standard of living
Example
Many people in the country live below the subsistence level.
fishing that provides enough fish for the fisherman and their family but not enough for sale
Example
The islanders rely on subsistence fishing for their livelihood.
Origins of subsistence
from Latin 'subsistentia', meaning 'a standing still, endurance'
Summary: subsistence in Brief
The term 'subsistence' [səbˈsɪstəns] refers to the state of having just enough money or food to stay alive, or the action of maintaining oneself at a minimum level. It can be seen in contexts such as subsistence farming, subsistence wages, and subsistence allowances. 'Subsistence' is often used to describe the minimum amount of income or resources necessary to maintain a basic standard of living.
