Part of Speech

The phrase "absolute minimum" functions as a noun.

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈæb.sə.lut ˈmɪn.ɪ.məm/

Meaning and Usage

The term "absolute minimum" refers to the smallest possible quantity, level, or degree of something that is considered acceptable or achievable. It implies that there is no possible reduction below this point. This phrase is often used in various contexts, including mathematics, engineering, economics, and everyday conversation when setting boundaries or thresholds.

The phrase is relatively common in both spoken and written English, with usage reflecting its context-dependent nature. It may appear frequently in academic texts, technical literature, and discussions about standards and requirements.

Example Sentences

1. The absolute minimum temperature required for the experiment is -5 degrees Celsius.

2. Translation: La temperatura mínima absoluta requerida para el experimento es de -5 grados Celsius.

3. The contractor stated that the absolute minimum budget for the renovation project should be $50,000.

4. Translation: El contratista afirmó que el presupuesto mínimo absoluto para el proyecto de renovación debería ser de $50,000.

5. To qualify for the scholarship, students must achieve an absolute minimum score of 85%.

6. Translation: Para calificar para la beca, los estudiantes deben alcanzar un puntaje mínimo absoluto del 85%.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "absolute minimum" itself may not be part of many idiomatic expressions, it can be related to concepts expressed in several idiomatic phrases. Below are examples using similar ideas.

1. Set the bar high
   You should set the bar high and aim for more than the absolute minimum in your studies.

2. Translation: Deberías fijar el estándar alto y aspirar a más que el mínimo absoluto en tus estudios.

3. Meet the bare minimum
   She does just enough to meet the bare minimum in her job requirements.

4. Translation: Ella hace lo justo para cumplir con el mínimo absoluto en los requerimientos de su trabajo.

5. Cutting corners
   If you start cutting corners, you won't even reach the absolute minimum needed for safety.

6. Translation: Si comienzas a tomar atajos, ni siquiera alcanzarás el mínimo absoluto necesario para la seguridad.

7. Go above and beyond
   To be successful in this field, you need to go above and beyond what is considered the absolute minimum.

8. Translation: Para tener éxito en este campo, necesitas ir más allá de lo que se considera el mínimo absoluto.

9. Leave no stone unturned
   In preparing for the exam, you should leave no stone unturned, as the absolute minimum score will not suffice.

10. Translation: Al prepararte para el examen, deberías no dejar piedra sin mover, ya que la puntuación mínima absoluta no será suficiente.

Etymology

The word "absolute" originates from the Latin "absolutus," which means "unrestricted, complete," and is derived from "absolvere," meaning "to free from, to set free." The word "minimum" comes from the Latin "minimum," meaning "least" or "smallest." Thus, the phrase "absolute minimum" combines these concepts to convey an unyielding lowest limit.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Lowest point - Least - Fundamentals (in some contexts)

Antonyms: - Maximum - Highest point - Summit

This comprehensive overview provides a deeper understanding of the phrase "absolute minimum," its uses, contextual relevance, idiomatic connections, etymology, and related synonyms and antonyms.