Bare: Literal and Figurative Meanings
Literal Meaning:
* Uncovered or exposed: This is the most basic meaning of "bare." It refers to something that is not covered or concealed. Examples:
* "The tree branches were bare in winter."
* "She walked into the room in bare feet."
* "The walls were bare, with no paintings or decorations."
Figurative Meanings:
* Lacking: "Bare" can also mean lacking something, often something essential or desirable. Examples:
* "The house was bare of furniture." (Lacking furniture)
* "She had a bare cupboard." (Lacking food)
* "His explanation was bare of detail." (Lacking details)
* Simple: Sometimes "bare" implies simplicity, with no unnecessary additions or embellishments. Examples:
* "The room had a bare, minimalist aesthetic."
* "He gave a bare outline of the plan."
* "The instructions were written in bare, straightforward language."
* Essential: "Bare" can also mean essential or fundamental. Examples:
* "The bare necessities of life."
* "He explained the bare facts of the case."
* "The bare minimum is required to pass the exam."
* Vulnerable: "Bare" can also have a sense of vulnerability or exposure, especially when used metaphorically. Examples:
* "He felt emotionally bare after the breakup."
* "The company was left bare to competition."
* "The city was bare to attack."
Note: The specific meaning of "bare" will depend on the context of the sentence.