Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

barely-surviving

Adjective
/ˈbɛərli sərˈvaɪvɪŋ/
Definition
Existing with just enough conditions to continue living or functioning, often in difficult circumstances.
Examples
  • Many small businesses are barely-surviving in the current economy.
  • After the harsh winter, only a few plants were barely-surviving in the garden.
  • The wildlife in the area is barely-surviving due to habitat loss.
Meaning
The term ‘barely-surviving’ is used to describe a state where someone or something is just managing to persist or endure a situation, often with little margin for error or support.
Synonyms
  • struggling
  • hardly living
  • making ends meet
  • under duress
  • on the brink