The phrase "ekes out an existence" means to live with great difficulty, often in poverty or scarcity. The phonetic transcription of the word "ekes" is /iːks/. It is spelled with an "e" in the beginning and a "k" instead of a "c" due to its Old English origin. The "s" at the end is pronounced as an unvoiced consonant, producing a sharp sound. This phrase has been used for centuries to describe the struggle of those who barely manage to survive.
To "eke out an existence" is a phrase used to describe a situation where someone is able to barely meet their basic needs and survive. It implies a life of hardship, struggle, and scarcity. The term "eke out" originated from the Old English term "ecan," meaning to increase or supplement, and it commonly implies just managing to prolong or sustain one's life in a meager way.
When someone "ekes out an existence," they are typically living at the edge of poverty or destitution, often lacking the necessary resources, opportunities, or means to improve their circumstances. This phrase is often associated with individuals who have very limited income, lack a stable job or housing, and have to make do with minimal resources. It conveys the idea of barely scraping by or enduring a harsh and minimalistic lifestyle.
"Eking out an existence" involves extreme frugality and resourcefulness to obtain the bare necessities, such as food, shelter, and clothing. People who are in this situation often have to leverage all available options, including seeking aid from charities, relying on handouts, or engaging in menial jobs. Overall, "eke out an existence" suggests a state of ongoing difficulty, where someone is just surviving day by day, without having the opportunity or means to improve their quality of life.