as a bare minimum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a bare minimum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the least amount or the most basic requirement that is acceptable in a given situation. Example: "To complete the project, we need to ensure that we meet the deadlines as a bare minimum."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

As a bare minimum, graduates should also have knowledge in standard Microsoft Office packages.

The Guardian

But at least we should decide, as a bare minimum principle, to stop kicking people when they're down.

The Guardian - Opinion

The education authorities in the cantons agreed only 25 years ago to teach a second national language, as a bare minimum, in secondary schools.

The Economist

Writing in the Mail on Sunday, the Tory MP for Basildon and Billericay, John Baron, said that the Nato commitment should be seen as a bare minimum.

The Guardian

Historically, government authorities have operated most mass public transport in Australian states and territories as a single provider, and as a bare minimum the government of the day is accountable to the public at elections.

The Guardian - Opinion

Its report, Cutting The Cake Fairly (pdf), said as a bare minimum, everyone should be entitled to a proper discussion and advice about their needs, even if they are ineligible for public funds.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Stopping short of calling for Governor Rowland, a Republican, to resign, the leader, George C. Jepsen, said, "At a bare minimum, step aside for as long as it takes for these investigations to be completed".

The New York Times

As far as the ongoing lessons, obviously multi-factor authentication should be a mandatory requirement for any news organization, at a bare minimum.

TechCrunch

As for the other three, I agree, but common sense should tell you that much at a bare minimum.

The New Yorker

There were pictures everywhere, with text at a bare minimum.

Forbes

"Yet funding for maintenance funding remains at a bare minimum".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when choosing "as a bare minimum". It's suitable for situations where you want to emphasize the baseline conditions that must be met, but it can sometimes sound demanding if not used carefully.

Common error

Avoid using "as a bare minimum" in casual conversation. It can sound overly formal or critical. Simpler phrases like "at least" or "to start with" are often more appropriate and less likely to be misinterpreted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a bare minimum" functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause by specifying the minimum acceptable level or requirement for an action or condition. This is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a bare minimum" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to specify the lowest acceptable level or requirement. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. While found across various contexts, it is most prevalent in news, business, and formal communications. Consider using it to emphasize essential conditions while avoiding overuse in casual conversations. Alternatives like "at the very least" may be more appropriate in certain situations. Overall, understanding its function and context ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

At the very least

Focuses on the minimum acceptable condition or action, similar to the original phrase.

As a minimum requirement

Highlights the necessity of meeting a certain threshold, emphasizing the 'requirement' aspect.

At an absolute minimum

Emphasizes the lowest possible level that can be tolerated.

At least

A more concise way to indicate a minimum expectation or condition.

As a starting point

Implies a foundational level from which further progress is expected.

As an essential

Highlights something is absolutely necessary.

At rock bottom

Focuses on the worst-case scenario or lowest possible value.

To say the least

Emphasizes the idea of understatement and that there is more to consider.

In the slightest degree

Refers to the smallest quantity or level, emphasizing minimal impact.

If nothing else

Indicates a last resort or fallback position.

FAQs

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

Use "as a bare minimum" to specify the least acceptable standard or requirement in a given situation. For example, "To pass the course, students must attend 80% of the lectures as a bare minimum".

What are some alternatives to "as a bare minimum"?

Alternatives include "at the very least", "as a minimum requirement", or "at least". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "as a bare minimum" formal or informal?

"As a bare minimum" leans towards the formal side, making it suitable for professional and academic contexts. In more casual situations, consider using less formal alternatives like "at least".

When should I use "as a bare minimum" instead of "at least"?

Use "as a bare minimum" when you want to emphasize that something is the absolute lowest acceptable level. "At least" is more general and doesn't necessarily highlight the minimal nature as strongly. For instance, "We need 10 participants at least" versus "We need 10 participants as a bare minimum".