subsistence level
noun
: a level of income that provides only enough money for basic needs
living below (the) subsistence level
Examples of subsistence level in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Retirees, already living close to a subsistence level, could slip deeper into poverty if their pensions are not topped up to keep pace with inflation.
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Andrew E. Kramer, New York Times, 31 Jan. 2024
In areas like western Guatemala, where coconut, corn and banana plantations stretch along the highway, many people scrape by at a barely subsistence level.
—Soudi Jiménez, Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2023
In general, though, it’s meant to provide a subsistence level of income for people younger than retirement age who can’t work.
—Liz Weston, oregonlive, 5 Mar. 2023
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Andrew E. Kramer, New York Times, 31 Jan. 2024
In areas like western Guatemala, where coconut, corn and banana plantations stretch along the highway, many people scrape by at a barely subsistence level.
—Soudi Jiménez, Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2023
In general, though, it’s meant to provide a subsistence level of income for people younger than retirement age who can’t work.
—Liz Weston, oregonlive, 5 Mar. 2023
Dictionary Entries Near subsistence level
Cite this Entry
“Subsistence level.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subsistence%20level. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.
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