Subsist

usgb/səbˈsɪst/
verb

To survive, especially on bare necessities.

He has had to subsist on welfare since losing his job.
Visual representation of "subsist" - To survive, especially on bare necessities

Often appears as...

  • subsist on
  • subsist off
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "subsist"
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Bare Elements

Refers to making do with the very minimum required to live, indicating hardship or simplicity.

Illustration for Bare Elements
The castaway had to subsist on coconuts and rainwater.
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Not Thriving

'Subsist' implies a struggle to maintain life, not a comfortable or prosperous existence.

Illustration for Not Thriving
After the hurricane, many had no choice but to subsist without electricity or clean water.
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Long-term Survival

Can suggest prolonged periods of scraping by, emphasizing continuity despite challenges.

Illustration for Long-term Survival
The refugees had to subsist in the camp for several years.
Visual representation of the word "Subsist"

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