Definition

The condition of having just enough food, money, or resources to live on, often at a very basic level.

Example

Many families rely on subsistence farming to provide for their daily needs.

Conversation

I was reading about subsistence farming the other day.

Oh really? What did you learn?

It’s interesting how people rely on it just to get by.

Yeah, it's amazing how different lifestyles can be around the world.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subsistence → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "sistere" (meaning to stand). The word refers to the condition of standing under or supporting oneself, particularly in terms of basic needs for survival.

Memory Tip

Think of 'standing under' ('sub-') to support oneself, which helps you remember that 'subsistence' refers to the means of supporting life.

Visually Confused Words