a bare minimum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bare minimum" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to the least amount necessary for something to happen. For example, "We need at least five people to be present, so we're looking for a bare minimum of five people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The law is, however, a bare minimum.

The Guardian - Opinion

Commentators called it a "bare minimum" show of support.

Independent

"But trainees work for a bare minimum," he said.

The New York Times

A bare minimum and a bare maximum, so to speak.

The New York Times

At a bare minimum, the policy choices ahead are difficult.

The New York Times

Firefighting teams are down to a bare minimum.

The New York Times

Everything else must be reduced to a bare minimum".

The Guardian

Universities can implement this by having a bare minimum fee structure.

University of California, Berkeley

A bare minimum number of transmissions are used in transfer schedules.

Cornell University

"Yanukovych wants to deliver a bare minimum of what the West is demanding.

The Economist

Oh, sure, he'll commit privately to limiting West Bank construction to a bare minimum.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bare minimum", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes the minimum. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the message is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid equating "a bare minimum" with doing the least amount of work possible simply to get by. Instead, use it to define a specific threshold that must be met, regardless of effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bare minimum" functions as a noun phrase, often used as an adverbial modifier to specify the lowest acceptable level or quantity required. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English and the numerous examples provided showcase its function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

18%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bare minimum" is a versatile phrase used to denote the lowest acceptable level or quantity of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability, highlighting its prevalence across contexts like news, academia, and science. While grammatically sound, it's crucial to use the phrase precisely, ensuring clarity and avoiding confusion with general laziness. Consider alternative phrases like "the absolute minimum" or "the very least" for nuanced meanings. Aim for more than "a bare minimum" to exceed expectations and achieve better results.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the absolute minimum

Replaces "bare" with "absolute", emphasizing the lowest possible acceptable level.

the irreducible minimum

Stresses that the amount cannot be reduced any further.

the very least

Uses simpler vocabulary to convey the idea of the smallest possible amount.

the lower limit

Highlights the boundary or the bottom end of acceptable range.

the minimum requirement

Focuses on the obligatory nature of the minimum amount.

the essential minimum

Emphasizes the necessity of meeting at least this minimum level.

the lowest threshold

Emphasizes the limit below which something is unacceptable or impossible.

base level

Highlights the foundation point from where starts the count.

rock bottom

Uses a metaphorical expression to indicate the lowest possible point or level.

a paltry amount

Highlights the insignificance or inadequacy of the minimum quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "a bare minimum" in a sentence?

You can use "a bare minimum" to describe the lowest acceptable level or quantity of something. For example, "At "a bare minimum", you should complete your daily tasks".

What are some alternatives to "a bare minimum"?

Alternatives include "the absolute minimum", "the very least", or "the minimum requirement", depending on the context.

Is it better to aim for "a bare minimum" or to exceed expectations?

While "a bare minimum" indicates the lowest acceptable level, exceeding expectations generally leads to better outcomes. It's often advisable to aim beyond the minimum.

What's the difference between "a bare minimum" and "as a bare minimum"?

"A bare minimum" refers to the quantity or level, whereas "as a bare minimum" suggests that something is being treated as the lowest possible requirement or standard.