bare minimum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bare minimum" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used in contexts where the speaker or writer is emphasizing that something has been done with a minimum effort or amount. For example, "We managed to get the project finished with the bare minimum of resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The bare minimum.

The New Yorker

Do the bare minimum.

The New York Times - Sports

"Yes, that should be the bare minimum.

Independent

"Laws only provide the bare minimum required".

The New York Times

He was claiming the bare minimum".

The Guardian

"They're doing the bare minimum, not even the bare minimum".

The Guardian

The bare minimum, no doubt.

The Guardian

4. Excellence is the bare minimum. 5.

Independent

Of course, these are the bare minimum.

The Guardian

Vanguard keeps expenses to the bare minimum.

The New York Times

We're starting with the bare minimum".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bare minimum", consider the context and whether a more specific term would be more appropriate. For instance, use "minimum standard" when referring to regulations and "absolute minimum" to emphasize finality.

Common error

While "bare minimum" is widely understood, it can sound informal in professional writing. Opt for alternatives like "essential requirements" or "minimum standards" to maintain a more formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bare minimum" functions as a noun phrase or adjective phrase. It typically modifies another noun to indicate the least amount or level necessary. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bare minimum" is a commonly used expression to describe the smallest possible quantity or the least fulfilling condition that is still adequate. According to Ludwig AI, the expression follows standard grammar rules and is widely accepted. It's frequently found in news, media, scientific, and business contexts. While generally appropriate, consider using more formal alternatives like "essential requirements" in professional writing to maintain a suitable tone. Related phrases such as "absolute minimum" and "minimum standard" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. Remember to be mindful of the context to ensure the most precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absolute minimum

Emphasizes the strict lower limit, similar to "bare minimum" but with a stronger sense of finality.

minimum standard

Highlights the baseline level of quality or performance that is acceptable.

minimum threshold

Similar to 'minimum standard', often used in formal or business contexts.

lowest possible level

Directly states the minimum extent or degree, suitable for technical or factual contexts.

least amount

A less emphatic version of "smallest possible amount".

basic requirement

Focuses on the essential condition that must be met, often in procedural or regulatory contexts.

smallest possible amount

Quantifies the least quantity that can be used or considered.

rock bottom

Implies reaching the lowest possible level, often in a negative or undesirable context.

mere necessity

Highlights the essential nature of something, suggesting that it is just adequate and nothing more.

floor

Implies a lower boundary that should not be crossed.

FAQs

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

You can use "bare minimum" to describe the least amount of effort or resources required for something, for example, "We need the "bare minimum" of staff to keep the office running".

What is a good alternative to "bare minimum"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "absolute minimum", "basic requirement", or "minimum standard".

Is "bare minimum" formal or informal?

"Bare minimum" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal. For more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "essential requirement" or "minimum specification".

What's the difference between "bare minimum" and "minimum requirement"?

"Bare minimum" often implies that something is just sufficient and perhaps grudgingly provided, while "minimum requirement" simply states the lowest acceptable condition without necessarily suggesting reluctance or inadequacy.