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.
—
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
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 30 Dec. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share