the state of having what you need in order to stay alive, but no more

The money is intended to provide a basic subsistence and should not be paid to someone who receives other income. 这些钱旨在提供基本生活保障，不应发放给有其他收入来源的人。

The family was living at subsistence level. 这家人过着勉强糊口的生活。

enough money or food to keep yourself alive