CEFR B1

subsistence farming

noun phrase

Meaning

The practice of growing crops and raising livestock only to meet the basic needs of the farmer and their family, rather than for commercial sale.

Examples

  • Subsistence farming is common in developing countries where access to markets is limited.
  • The family has practiced subsistence farming for generations, relying on traditional methods.

Synonyms: self-sufficiency farming, smallholder farming, traditional farming