does the minimum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does the minimum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that meets only the basic requirements or standards without going beyond them. Example: "In his performance review, it was noted that he often does the minimum required to complete his tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Nor, sometimes, does the minimum wage.

The New York Times

He's got a great mind, he relaxes and just does the minimum, which is brilliant.

The Guardian - Sport

"Kim is not a student who does the minimum," Ms. Kronick said.

The New York Times

Does the minimum wage keep up with the cost of living?

The Guardian

Only at large morphological numbers does the minimum undercooling point corresponds to the marginal stability limit.

Acta Materialia

The Nigerian government, in its classic manner, does the minimum possible in terms of the education sector rather than actively investing to provide its growing youth population with a rich literary culture.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

I really do the minimum.

The New York Times

The government has done "the minimum possible".

The Guardian

"They do the minimum, and it's a sad story".

The New York Times

Because had we done that, we never would have done the minimum wage.

The Guardian

He appears to do the minimum on the podium yet inspires adulation and blazing results.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to point out a lack of ambition or going above and beyond, use "does the minimum". It is useful to showcase someone is meeting basic requirements only.

Common error

Avoid using "does the minimum" when you mean someone is doing a satisfactory job. This phrase often implies a lack of enthusiasm or going beyond what's required. If the individual's effort is satisfactory, consider using more positive language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does the minimum" functions as a verbal phrase within a sentence, typically acting as the predicate. It describes an action related to fulfilling a basic requirement or standard. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "does the minimum" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe actions that meet only the basic requirements, often implying a lack of ambition or going above and beyond. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, with frequent use in news and media, and science. Related phrases include "meets the bare minimum" and "exerts minimal effort". While generally neutral in register, it often carries a negative connotation. When writing, be mindful of the implied criticism and consider alternatives if a more positive tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meets the bare minimum

Implies fulfilling only the most basic requirements, highlighting a lack of exceeding expectations.

performs the least amount

Focuses on the quantity of work done, suggesting a minimal effort approach.

exerts minimal effort

Emphasizes the small amount of energy or exertion applied to a task.

undertakes the basics

Highlights performing fundamental actions, without additional elaboration or improvement.

adheres to the lower limit

Suggests sticking to the lowest acceptable boundary or standard.

complies with the essentials

Indicates conforming to the most necessary aspects, without exceeding them.

fulfills minimal obligations

Focuses on meeting the basic responsibilities, with no extra commitment.

scarcely makes an effort

Expresses a lack of significant attempt or diligence.

barely suffices

Implies that the action or effort is only just adequate to meet the needs.

sticks to what's necessary

Emphasizes limiting actions to only the required tasks or steps.

FAQs

How can I use "does the minimum" in a sentence?

You can use "does the minimum" to indicate that someone is only fulfilling the basic requirements of a task or role. For example, "He isn't exceeding expectations; he just "does the minimum" to get by".

What phrases are similar to "does the minimum"?

Similar phrases include "meets the bare minimum", "performs the least amount", or "exerts minimal effort". These alternatives emphasize the lack of additional effort.

Is it negative to say someone "does the minimum"?

Yes, saying someone "does the minimum" often carries a negative connotation. It suggests a lack of engagement, ambition, or willingness to exceed expectations. Consider your audience and intent before using this phrase.

Which is correct, "does the minimum" or "do the minimum"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "does the minimum" for singular subjects (e.g., "he", "she", "the government"), and "do the minimum" for plural subjects or when using "I", "you", "we", or "they". Example: "They "do the minimum" required by law".