The phrase "bare bones" is used to describe something that is simple or basic. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet, which uses symbols to represent sounds. The first sound in "bare" is represented by the symbol /b/ and the second sound is represented by the symbol /ɛə/. The first sound in "bones" is represented by the symbol /b/ and the second sound is represented by the symbol /əʊ/. Together, they make up the commonly understood English phrase "bare bones."
Bare bones is an idiomatic expression, often used as an adjective, that refers to the most basic or essential aspects of something, without any additional frills or embellishments. This term is commonly used to describe a simplified or stripped-down version of a system, process, or design.
In the context of technology or software development, bare bones typically refers to the bare minimum functionality or features required for a system to function properly. It often implies that the system lacks advanced or elaborate functionalities, focusing solely on the core functionalities required to fulfill its purpose.
Furthermore, bare bones can also describe a simplified or minimalistic approach to design or aesthetics. In this sense, it refers to a style that embraces simplicity by removing any unnecessary elements or details. For instance, a bare bones website may consist of basic text, minimal graphics, and a straightforward layout, without any additional flashy features or elaborate designs.
Similarly, the phrase is also used metaphorically to describe situations or scenarios where only the most essential elements or components are present, with everything else being omitted or discarded. For example, a bare bones budget could refer to a financial plan that only includes the most crucial expenses, with all additional or discretionary spending being eliminated.
Overall, "bare bones" describes the fundamental or elemental aspects of something while excluding any non-essential or superficial elements.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The phrase "bare bones" originated in the late 19th century and its etymology can be traced back to anatomical terminology. The word "bare" means "uncovered" or "without a covering", while "bones" refers to the skeletal system of an organism.
The phrase "bare bones" was originally used to describe a stripped-down or essential version of something, similar to how the skeleton provides the essential framework of a body. Over time, its usage expanded to refer to anything that is simple, basic, or lacking unnecessary details.
The metaphorical application of this phrase to describe a minimalistic or essential version of something likely derives from the visual imagery and simplicity associated with a bare skeleton.