"Barely a team" is a phrase used to describe a group that doesn't seem to have enough people to accomplish a task or project. Synonyms for this phrase could include "skeleton crew," which suggests a team that has the minimum number of people required to function. Other synonyms might include "understaffed," "short-staffed," or "inadequate staffing." All of these phrases imply that the team is struggling to meet the demands placed upon it due to a lack of people or resources. Whether it's a staffing issue or a lack of experience, a team that is described as "barely a team" is one that is facing significant challenges.