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B1 noun #18 most common 15 min read

existence

Top 18

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips existence in 30 Seconds

Explanation existence in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'existence' is a bit advanced, but you can understand it simply as 'being here' or 'being real.' Think about things you can see and touch. If a dog is in the room, the dog has 'existence' in that room. If you have a toy, that toy exists. We use this word to say that something is not just a dream or a story; it is a real thing in the world. You might hear it in very simple sentences like 'Is there life on Mars?' which is asking about the existence of living things. At this stage, don't worry too much about the big philosophical meanings. Just remember that 'existence' means something is real and present. You can think of it as the noun form of 'is' or 'are.' If something 'is,' it has existence. For example, 'The existence of the sun gives us light.' This means because the sun is there, we have light. It's a big word for a simple idea: things being real.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'existence' to talk about more than just physical objects. You can use it to talk about the 'existence' of problems or the 'existence' of rules. For example, 'The existence of many rules makes the game difficult.' Here, you are talking about the fact that the rules are there. You might also use it to describe a person's life in a simple way, like 'He has a quiet existence.' This means his life is calm and he doesn't do many loud or busy things. You will also see this word in phrases like 'in existence.' If you say 'This is the oldest car in existence,' you mean it is the oldest car that is still real and can be found today. It's a useful word for making your English sound a little more formal and serious. Instead of just saying 'There are many problems,' you can say 'The existence of many problems is a concern.' This shows you are moving beyond the most basic vocabulary.

At the B1 level, 'existence' becomes a key word for discussing more complex topics like science, history, and personal feelings. You should understand that it can mean both 'the fact of being real' and 'a way of living.' For instance, in a science class, you might discuss the 'existence of gravity.' In a history class, you might learn about the 'existence of ancient empires.' You can also use it to describe a difficult life, like 'Many people lead a precarious existence,' meaning their lives are uncertain and perhaps dangerous. You should be comfortable using it with different adjectives and in phrases like 'come into existence' (to start) and 'cease to exist' (to end). For example, 'When did this company come into existence?' or 'Some languages are ceasing to exist because fewer people speak them.' This level is where you start to see the word's versatility in connecting different subjects, from the survival of animals to the start of new technologies.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'existence' with precision in academic and professional contexts. You will encounter it in discussions about 'existential' threats—threats that could end the existence of something, like climate change threatening the existence of certain islands. You should also be able to use it to discuss abstract concepts like 'the existence of a soul' or 'the existence of social justice.' At this level, you can use the word to add nuance to your arguments. Instead of just stating facts, you can discuss the implications of the 'existence' of those facts. For example, 'The existence of a digital divide prevents many children from getting a good education.' You should also be aware of the word's role in literature and philosophy, where it often refers to the human condition and the search for meaning. You can use it to describe complex lifestyles, such as a 'nomadic existence' or a 'solitary existence,' and understand how these choices affect a person's identity.

At the C1 level, you are expected to use 'existence' with a high degree of sophistication. You will use it in philosophical debates, perhaps discussing 'existentialism' and the idea that our existence is something we must define for ourselves. You will use it in high-level scientific writing to discuss the 'existence of dark matter' or the 'existence of parallel universes.' You should be able to use it in complex grammatical structures, such as 'The very existence of such a policy is a testament to the government's priorities.' Here, 'existence' is the subject of a nuanced observation. You will also encounter it in legal and formal documents where the 'legal existence' of a corporation or the 'existence of a binding agreement' is being debated. At this level, you understand that 'existence' is not just about being real, but about the nature and quality of that reality. You can use it to critique social structures, discuss the history of ideas, and express deep personal reflections with clarity and elegance.

At the C2 level, 'existence' is a tool for profound intellectual inquiry. You might use it to explore ontological questions about the 'nature of existence' itself—what does it mean for anything to exist at all? You will use it in literary criticism to analyze how an author portrays the 'fragile existence' of their characters or the 'marginalized existence' of certain groups. Your usage will be indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, employing the word in idiomatic and metaphorical ways. For example, you might speak of 'taxing a business out of existence' or 'erasing someone's existence' from historical records. You understand the deep historical and philosophical roots of the word and can use it to engage with the most complex ideas in science, law, and the humanities. Whether you are writing a doctoral thesis or delivering a keynote speech, 'existence' will be a word you use to ground your most abstract thoughts in the fundamental reality of being.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

existence in 30 Seconds

Existence is the state of being real, present, or alive in the world.
It can refer to biological life, physical objects, or abstract concepts like truth.
The word also describes a specific lifestyle or way of living, often a difficult one.
Common phrases include 'in existence,' 'come into existence,' and 'cease to exist.'

The word existence is a foundational noun in the English language, serving as the bridge between abstract philosophy and concrete reality. At its most basic level, it denotes the state of being real, of having a presence in the physical or conceptual world. When we speak of existence, we are often addressing the fundamental question of whether something 'is' or 'is not.' This word is not merely a synonym for 'life,' though it is frequently used in biological contexts; rather, it encompasses everything from the presence of subatomic particles to the persistence of ancient civilizations. In daily conversation, you might use it to describe the discovery of a new species, where its existence was previously unknown, or in a more personal sense, to describe the quality of one's daily life. It carries a weight of permanence and factuality. For instance, scientists spend decades searching for evidence of the existence of water on distant planets because that fact alone changes our understanding of the universe. Beyond the scientific, the word is deeply embedded in human experience. We talk about a 'peaceful existence' or a 'struggle for existence,' where the word shifts from meaning 'being' to meaning 'the manner of living.' This nuance is crucial for intermediate learners to grasp. It is a versatile tool that allows speakers to move from the cosmic—the existence of God or the universe—to the mundane—the existence of a small crack in a foundation. Understanding this word requires looking at it through multiple lenses: the ontological (what does it mean to be?), the biological (how do organisms survive?), and the sociological (how do we live together?).

Biological Context: In biology, existence refers to the continued survival of a species or organism. If a species goes extinct, its existence on Earth ceases. This is often used in discussions about conservation and environmental protection.

The scientist dedicated her entire career to proving the existence of a rare deep-sea creature that had only been seen in folklore.

Philosophical Context: Philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre explored the idea that 'existence precedes essence,' suggesting that humans exist first and then define their purpose through their actions and choices.

Many people question the existence of fate, preferring to believe that they are the sole masters of their own destiny.

The very existence of the ancient ruins suggests that a highly advanced civilization once thrived in this desert.

Legal and Official Context: In law, the existence of a contract or a legal entity (like a corporation) is a formal status that grants specific rights and responsibilities. Without proof of existence, a claim cannot be pursued.

After the war, the refugees were forced to lead a precarious existence in temporary camps for several years.

The company's continued existence depends entirely on securing a new round of investment by the end of the month.

In summary, existence is about the 'is-ness' of things. Whether you are talking about the soul, a species of bird, a legal document, or a lifestyle, you are using 'existence' to confirm that these things occupy a space in our reality. It is a word that demands evidence and acknowledgment, making it central to science, law, and personal reflection.

Using the word existence correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its various semantic shades. It often follows verbs like 'prove,' 'deny,' 'acknowledge,' or 'threaten.' For example, 'The evidence proved the existence of the conspiracy.' Here, the word acts as the object of the verb, representing a factual state that has been confirmed. Another common structure involves the preposition 'in.' We often say something is 'in existence.' For instance, 'There are only three such manuscripts still in existence.' This phrase emphasizes the rarity and the continued survival of the objects. When describing a person's life, 'existence' is frequently modified by adjectives that characterize the quality of that life, such as 'peaceful,' 'miserable,' 'solitary,' or 'humble.' You might say, 'He lived a quiet existence in the countryside.' In this context, the word is synonymous with 'lifestyle' or 'way of living,' but it carries a more profound, almost existential weight. It suggests the totality of one's being rather than just their daily habits. Furthermore, 'existence' is a key component in 'there is/there are' constructions when we want to discuss the reality of a concept. Instead of saying 'Ghosts are real,' a more formal or academic approach would be to discuss 'the existence of ghosts.' This shifts the focus from the subject to the state of being itself. Learners should also be aware of the phrase 'come into existence,' which describes the moment something begins to be. 'The new law came into existence last January.' This is more formal than saying 'the law started.' Conversely, 'cease to exist' is a powerful way to describe something ending or disappearing entirely. 'Without funding, the program will cease to exist.' This implies a total termination, not just a temporary pause. By mastering these patterns, you can express complex ideas about reality, survival, and lifestyle with precision and sophistication.

Common Verb Pairings: Verbs like 'threaten,' 'endanger,' or 'jeopardize' are often used when the state of being is at risk. 'Pollution threatens the existence of many coral reefs.'

The government refused to acknowledge the existence of the secret facility despite overwhelming evidence from satellite imagery.

Prepositional Phrases: The phrase 'out of existence' is used with verbs like 'bomb' or 'tax.' 'The small shops were taxed out of existence by the new regulations.'

Throughout its thousand-year existence, the cathedral has survived fires, wars, and natural disasters.

The philosopher spent his life pondering the existence of a higher power and the meaning of human suffering.

Adjectival Modification: Using adjectives like 'precarious,' 'stable,' or 'meaningful' before 'existence' helps to define the quality of life being discussed.

We must ensure the continued existence of our national parks for future generations to enjoy.

The digital age has brought into existence entirely new ways of communicating and doing business.

Whether you are writing a scientific report, a philosophical essay, or a personal journal entry, 'existence' provides a robust way to discuss the reality and quality of the world around us. Pay attention to the prepositions and adjectives that surround it, as they provide the necessary context to distinguish between 'being' and 'living.'

You will encounter the word existence in a surprisingly wide array of contexts, from high-level academic discourse to everyday media. In documentaries about space or nature, narrators frequently use it to discuss the 'existence of life' on other planets or the 'threatened existence' of endangered species. It lends an air of gravity and scientific inquiry to the subject. In the news, you might hear about the 'existence of a secret document' or the 'continued existence of a political regime.' Here, the word is used to emphasize the factuality of something that might be controversial or hidden. In the realm of technology and business, companies often talk about their 'long-standing existence' to build trust with customers, or they might discuss how a new invention 'brought a new market into existence.' This usage highlights the creative and historical aspects of the word. Furthermore, in literature and film, characters often grapple with the 'meaning of their existence.' This is a classic trope in existentialist cinema and novels, where the word represents the sum total of a person's experiences and their search for purpose. You will also hear it in legal settings, where a lawyer might need to prove the 'existence of a partnership' or the 'existence of a prior agreement.' In these cases, the word is used with clinical precision to establish legal facts. Even in casual conversation, though less common than 'life' or 'being,' someone might say, 'I didn't even know that place was in existence!' to express surprise at the longevity or reality of a business or location. The word is ubiquitous because it addresses the most fundamental aspect of our world: what is real and what is not. By listening for it in these different settings, you will begin to see how it functions as a versatile tool for expressing reality, history, and the quality of life.

Science and Nature Documentaries: Narrators use 'existence' to discuss the search for extraterrestrial life or the survival of rare ecosystems, emphasizing the wonder and fragility of being.

'The existence of these ancient trees is a testament to the resilience of nature,' the narrator explained as the camera panned over the forest.

News and Investigative Journalism: Journalists use the word to report on the discovery of hidden facts, such as 'the existence of a shadow government' or 'the existence of systemic corruption.'

The CEO was asked to justify the company's existence in a market that was rapidly moving toward more sustainable alternatives.

The film explores the lonely existence of a lighthouse keeper stationed on a remote island in the North Atlantic.

Business and Marketing: Companies use 'existence' to highlight their heritage: 'Celebrating fifty years of existence, we remain committed to quality and innovation.'

The very existence of the internet has fundamentally changed how we perceive time and distance.

The detective began to doubt the existence of the witness, suspecting that the name was merely a clever alias.

From the grandest scientific discoveries to the most intimate personal reflections, 'existence' is a word that resonates across all sectors of society. Its ability to convey both the simple fact of being and the complex quality of living makes it an indispensable part of the English lexicon.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with existence is confusing it with its verb form, 'exist.' While they are related, they cannot be used interchangeably. For example, you cannot say 'The existence of the problem is difficult,' if you mean 'The problem exists.' However, you can say 'The existence of the problem was finally acknowledged.' The noun 'existence' focuses on the state or the fact, while the verb 'exist' focuses on the action of being. Another common error is the misuse of articles. Because 'existence' can be both uncountable (referring to the general state of being) and countable (referring to a specific way of life), learners often get confused. You should say 'Existence is a mystery' (uncountable), but 'He led a happy existence' (countable). Using 'the' before 'existence' is usually necessary when it is followed by 'of,' as in 'the existence of life.' A third mistake involves the spelling; many learners accidentally write 'existance' with an 'a.' It is always spelled with an 'e' in the third syllable: ex-ist-Ence. Furthermore, learners sometimes use 'existence' when 'life' would be more natural. While 'existence' is correct, saying 'I love my existence' sounds overly dramatic or philosophical compared to 'I love my life.' Use 'existence' when you want to emphasize the fact of being or a specific, often difficult, way of living. Finally, be careful with the phrase 'in existence.' It is often used to mean 'that currently exist,' but some learners try to use it as a subject, which is incorrect. You should say 'Many species in existence today are endangered,' not 'In existence today are many species' (unless you are being very poetic). Avoiding these pitfalls will help you use the word with the precision of a native speaker.

Spelling Error: Incorrect: 'existance'. Correct: 'existence'. Remember the 'e' at the end of the root 'exist' carries through to the suffix '-ence'.

Incorrect: The existance of the moon is a fact. Correct: The existence of the moon is a fact.

Confusing Noun and Verb: Incorrect: 'They existence in peace.' Correct: 'They exist in peace' or 'They lead a peaceful existence.'

Incorrect: He has a very busy existence. (Sounds slightly odd) Better: He has a very busy life.

Correct: The hermit led a solitary existence in the mountains. (This works because it describes a fundamental state of being).

Article Misuse: Incorrect: 'I am questioning existence of God.' Correct: 'I am questioning the existence of God.'

Incorrect: The dinosaurs' existence ended millions of years ago. (Grammatically okay, but 'extinction' is the more precise scientific term).

Correct: The existence of fossils proves that dinosaurs once roamed the Earth.

By paying attention to these common errors—spelling, noun-verb confusion, article usage, and context—you can ensure that your use of 'existence' is both accurate and natural. It is a powerful word that, when used correctly, adds depth and clarity to your English.

While existence is a very specific term, there are several synonyms and related words that can be used depending on the context. The most common alternative is 'life,' but as we've seen, 'life' is more personal and often refers to biological processes or daily activities. 'Being' is another close synonym, often used in philosophical or spiritual contexts (e.g., 'a human being'). 'Presence' is used when you want to emphasize that something is physically there (e.g., 'the presence of a witness'). 'Reality' is a broader term that encompasses everything that exists (e.g., 'the reality of the situation'). In more formal or scientific contexts, you might use 'subsistence,' which refers to the minimum level of existence needed to survive, or 'entity,' which refers to something that has a distinct and independent existence. When talking about the beginning of something, 'inception' or 'creation' might be better alternatives to 'coming into existence.' Conversely, 'extinction' or 'annihilation' are stronger terms than 'ceasing to exist' for specific contexts like biology or physics. Understanding the subtle differences between these words will allow you to choose the most precise term for your needs. For example, if you are talking about a ghost, 'presence' might be more evocative than 'existence.' If you are talking about a business, 'longevity' might be better than 'existence' to describe how long it has been around. By expanding your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can avoid repetition and express your ideas with greater nuance.

Existence vs. Life: 'Existence' is the fact of being; 'life' is the experience of being. You can have a miserable existence, but you live a miserable life.

The existence of the virus was confirmed, but its effect on human life was still unknown.

Existence vs. Presence: 'Existence' is general; 'presence' is specific to a location or time. 'The existence of oxygen is necessary, but the presence of smoke in this room is dangerous.'

The existence of a soul is a matter of faith, while the reality of the body is a matter of science.

The company's existence was threatened by the sudden appearance of a much larger competitor.

Existence vs. Reality: 'Existence' refers to the fact of being; 'reality' refers to the state of things as they actually are, as opposed to how they might be imagined.

The existence of the document was a closely guarded secret for over fifty years.

Many people find a sense of peace in the existence of a higher power that guides their lives.

By exploring these synonyms and their specific contexts, you can see that 'existence' is part of a rich network of words that help us describe the world and our place in it. Choosing the right word is not just about being correct; it's about being expressive and precise.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The root 'stare' in 'existere' is the same root found in 'stand,' 'status,' and 'statue.' So, to exist literally means to 'stand out' from what is not there.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɪɡˈzɪstəns/

US /ɪɡˈzɪstəns/

The primary stress is on the second syllable: ex-IST-ence.

Rhymes With

resistance assistance distance persistence consistence insistence subsistence nonresistance

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'x' as 'ks' instead of 'gz'. It should sound like 'ig-zis-tens'.
Stressing the first syllable instead of the second.
Adding an extra vowel sound between 's' and 't'.
Pronouncing the final '-ence' as '-ance'.
Mumbling the middle 'ist' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is common in academic and news texts, making it essential for intermediate readers.

Writing 4/5

Using it correctly with the right prepositions and articles requires some practice.

Speaking 3/5

It is a useful word for formal discussions, though 'life' is often used in casual speech.

Listening 3/5

It is frequently heard in documentaries and serious news reports.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

exist real life being fact

Learn Next

existential essence ontological subsistence entity

Advanced

existentialism phenomenology metaphysics ontology epistemology

Grammar to Know

Noun vs. Verb

Use 'existence' (noun) for the state: 'The existence of the problem.' Use 'exist' (verb) for the action: 'The problem exists.'

Uncountable vs. Countable

Use uncountable for general being: 'Existence is a mystery.' Use countable for a lifestyle: 'He led a quiet existence.'

Prepositional Phrases

Commonly used with 'in': 'The oldest book in existence.' Or 'into': 'The law came into existence.'

Adjective Modification

Always place the adjective before the noun: 'a peaceful existence,' 'a precarious existence.'

The 'of' Construction

When specifying what exists, use 'the existence of [noun]': 'the existence of ghosts.'

Examples by Level

The existence of the sun makes the day bright.

L'existence du soleil rend la journée lumineuse.

Simple noun as subject.

Is there life on Mars? We look for its existence.

Y a-t-il de la vie sur Mars ? Nous cherchons son existence.

Using 'its' to refer back to life.

The existence of water is important for all animals.

L'existence de l'eau est importante pour tous les animaux.

Uncountable noun 'water' after 'existence of'.

I did not know about the existence of this old book.

Je ne connaissais pas l'existence de ce vieux livre.

Using 'about the existence of'.

The existence of a big park in the city is good.

L'existence d'un grand parc dans la ville est une bonne chose.

Noun phrase as subject.

We are happy about the existence of our new baby.

Nous sommes heureux de l'existence de notre nouveau bébé.

Expressing emotion regarding existence.

The existence of toys makes children happy.

L'existence des jouets rend les enfants heureux.

Plural noun 'toys' after 'existence of'.

Does the existence of ghosts scare you?

L'existence des fantômes vous fait-elle peur ?

Question form.

He led a very simple existence in a small cabin.

Il menait une existence très simple dans une petite cabane.

Countable use of 'existence' with an adjective.

The existence of many rules can be confusing.

L'existence de nombreuses règles peut être déroutante.

Abstract noun 'rules' after 'existence of'.

This is the rarest coin in existence today.

C'est la pièce la plus rare qui existe aujourd'hui.

Phrase 'in existence' meaning 'that exists'.

The existence of the internet changed how we learn.

L'existence d'Internet a changé notre façon d'apprendre.

Proper noun 'the internet' after 'existence of'.

They are trying to prove the existence of a secret room.

Ils essaient de prouver l'existence d'une pièce secrète.

Verb 'prove' followed by 'the existence of'.

The existence of a new shop is great for the town.

L'existence d'un nouveau magasin est une excellente chose pour la ville.

Noun phrase as subject.

We must protect the existence of these rare birds.

Nous devons protéger l'existence de ces oiseaux rares.

Verb 'protect' followed by 'the existence of'.

Her existence was full of travel and adventure.

Son existence était pleine de voyages et d'aventures.

Possessive 'her' modifying 'existence'.

The company came into existence over a hundred years ago.

L'entreprise a vu le jour il y a plus de cent ans.

Idiomatic phrase 'come into existence'.

Many species are threatened by the loss of their existence.

De nombreuses espèces sont menacées par la perte de leur existence.

Using 'existence' to mean survival.

The existence of a common language helps people communicate.

L'existence d'une langue commune aide les gens à communiquer.

Abstract concept as the subject.

He questioned the very existence of the document they mentioned.

Il a mis en doute l'existence même du document dont ils parlaient.

Emphatic use of 'the very existence'.

Without water, life as we know it would cease to exist.

Sans eau, la vie telle que nous la connaissons cesserait d'exister.

Verb phrase 'cease to exist' (related to the noun).

The existence of social media has both pros and cons.

L'existence des réseaux sociaux a des avantages et des inconvénients.

Using 'existence' to introduce a discussion topic.

She led a solitary existence after moving to the mountains.

Elle menait une existence solitaire après avoir emménagé dans les montagnes.

Adjective 'solitary' modifying 'existence'.

The existence of the virus was a shock to the entire world.

L'existence du virus a été un choc pour le monde entier.

Scientific context.

The existence of systemic inequality is a major social issue.

L'existence d'une inégalité systémique est un problème social majeur.

Complex abstract subject.

The treaty ensured the continued existence of the small nation.

Le traité a assuré le maintien de l'existence de la petite nation.

Adjective 'continued' modifying 'existence'.

Philosophers often debate the existence of objective truth.

Les philosophes débattent souvent de l'existence d'une vérité objective.

Philosophical context.

The existence of a black hole was proven by gravitational waves.

L'existence d'un trou noir a été prouvée par les ondes gravitationnelles.

Passive voice with 'proven by'.

His existence was defined by his dedication to his craft.

Son existence était définie par son dévouement à son métier.

Using 'existence' to mean the essence of a person's life.

The existence of a loophole allowed the company to avoid taxes.

L'existence d'une faille a permis à l'entreprise d'éviter les impôts.

Legal/Business context.

The existence of ancient ruins suggests a complex society.

L'existence de ruines antiques suggère une société complexe.

Verb 'suggests' following the noun phrase.

They were forced to justify their existence to the board of directors.

Ils ont été contraints de justifier leur existence devant le conseil d'administration.

Idiomatic use of 'justify one's existence'.

The very existence of the universe remains a profound mystery.

L'existence même de l'univers reste un mystère profond.

Emphatic 'the very existence'.

The existence of a vibrant middle class is vital for democracy.

L'existence d'une classe moyenne dynamique est vitale pour la démocratie.

Political/Sociological context.

The existence of these letters provides a window into the past.

L'existence de ces lettres offre une fenêtre sur le passé.

Metaphorical 'window into the past'.

Her existence was a constant struggle against poverty and illness.

Son existence était une lutte constante contre la pauvreté et la maladie.

Describing a difficult life condition.

The existence of a legal precedent made the case easier to win.

L'existence d'un précédent juridique a rendu l'affaire plus facile à gagner.

Legal terminology.

The existence of a shadow economy can undermine national stability.

L'existence d'une économie souterraine peut compromettre la stabilité nationale.

Economic context.

He explored the existential angst that accompanies human existence.

Il a exploré l'angoisse existentielle qui accompagne l'existence humaine.

Philosophical/Literary context.

The existence of a digital footprint is unavoidable in the modern age.

L'existence d'une empreinte numérique est inévitable à l'ère moderne.

Modern technological context.

The ontological argument seeks to prove the existence of God through reason alone.

L'argument ontologique cherche à prouver l'existence de Dieu par la seule raison.

High-level philosophical terminology.

The existence of a collective consciousness is a central tenet of his theory.

L'existence d'une conscience collective est un principe central de sa théorie.

Sociological/Psychological theory.

The existence of a multiverse would fundamentally alter our perception of reality.

L'existence d'un multivers modifierait fondamentalement notre perception de la réalité.

Speculative scientific context.

The regime attempted to erase any trace of the group's existence from history.

Le régime a tenté d'effacer toute trace de l'existence du groupe de l'histoire.

Strong verb 'erase' with 'existence'.

The existence of a symbiotic relationship between the two species is well-documented.

L'existence d'une relation symbiotique entre les deux espèces est bien documentée.

Biological/Scientific precision.

The existence of a glass ceiling continues to hinder the careers of many women.

L'existence d'un plafond de verre continue d'entraver la carrière de nombreuses femmes.

Metaphorical social critique.

The existence of a moral vacuum in the city led to widespread corruption.

L'existence d'un vide moral dans la ville a conduit à une corruption généralisée.

Metaphorical 'moral vacuum'.

The existence of a hidden agenda was suspected by all the participants.

L'existence d'un agenda caché était soupçonnée par tous les participants.

Idiomatic 'hidden agenda'.

Common Collocations

continued existence

threaten the existence

prove the existence

in existence

come into existence

cease to exist

human existence

precarious existence

acknowledge the existence

peaceful existence

Common Phrases

the meaning of existence

— The purpose or reason for being alive. Often used in philosophical discussions.

He spent years traveling the world to find the meaning of existence.

justify one's existence

— To prove that one is useful or necessary. Often used in business or personal contexts.

The department had to justify its existence by showing a profit.

out of existence

— To cause something to stop existing, often through force or pressure. Used with verbs like 'bomb' or 'tax'.

The small shops were taxed out of existence by the new laws.

still in existence

— Something that has survived from the past and is still here today. Emphasizes longevity.

There are only a few copies of this rare book still in existence.

the very existence of

— An emphatic way to refer to the fact that something exists, often to highlight its importance or impact.

The very existence of the internet has changed how we live.

threat to existence

— Something that could cause a thing or person to stop being real or alive. Serious and grave.

The rising sea levels are a threat to the existence of the coastal town.

daily existence

— The routine and activities that make up a person's everyday life. Similar to 'daily life'.

Her daily existence was filled with hard work and little rest.

legal existence

— The status of being recognized as a real entity by the law. Important for companies and contracts.

The company's legal existence began when the papers were signed.

biological existence

— The state of being alive in a physical, organic sense. Used in science and medicine.

The machine kept his biological existence going, but he was not conscious.

solitary existence

— A way of living where a person is alone most of the time. Often by choice.

The writer preferred a solitary existence in a cabin in the woods.

Often Confused With

existence vs existance

This is a common spelling error. Always use 'e' in the third syllable.

existence vs existence vs. life

Existence is the fact of being; life is the experience or biological process of being.

existence vs existence vs. presence

Existence is general reality; presence is being in a specific place at a specific time.

Idioms & Expressions

"wipe something out of existence"

— To destroy something completely so that no trace of it remains. Very strong and dramatic.

The volcano wiped the entire city out of existence in a single day.

informal/dramatic

"call something into existence"

— To cause something to start existing, often through a formal act or creative process.

The new law called a special committee into existence to study the problem.

formal

"blip on the radar of existence"

— Something that is very small or unimportant in the grand scheme of things. Often used to humble someone.

In the history of the universe, human history is just a blip on the radar of existence.

metaphorical

"existence is pain"

— A humorous or dramatic way to express that life is difficult or that one is suffering. Popular in modern internet culture.

I have so much homework; existence is pain right now!

slang/informal

"struggle for existence"

— The competition between living things to survive in a difficult environment. Often associated with Darwinism.

In the wild, every animal is involved in a constant struggle for existence.

scientific/literary

"bring into existence"

— To create or make something real that was not there before. Similar to 'call into existence'.

The artist's goal was to bring something beautiful into existence.

neutral/creative

"threaten the very existence of"

— To be a danger to the most fundamental part of something's being. Very serious.

The scandal threatened the very existence of the political party.

formal/serious

"the bare existence"

— The most basic level of living, with only the absolute necessities. Often implies poverty.

They were reduced to a bare existence after losing their jobs.

descriptive

"existence precedes essence"

— A philosophical phrase meaning that humans exist first and then define their purpose. Central to existentialism.

Sartre's famous phrase 'existence precedes essence' is a cornerstone of his philosophy.

academic/philosophical

"curse one's existence"

— To be extremely unhappy with one's life or the fact that one was born. Very dramatic.

In the tragic play, the hero curses his existence after losing everything.

literary/dramatic

Easily Confused

existence vs existent

It is the adjective form of the noun 'existence.'

Existent describes something that is real right now, while existence is the noun for the state of being real.

The existent species are being studied. (Adjective)

existence vs existential

It sounds similar and is related to the same root.

Existential refers to the nature of existence or a threat to it, often in a philosophical or grave sense.

Climate change is an existential threat to humanity.

existence vs subsistence

Both refer to a way of living.

Subsistence specifically refers to the bare minimum needed to survive, usually in terms of food and money.

The family lived on a subsistence level.

existence vs essence

Often used together in philosophy.

Existence is the fact that something is; essence is what that thing fundamentally is (its nature).

Existence precedes essence in some philosophies.

existence vs entity

Both refer to something that exists.

An entity is a specific thing that has its own existence, while existence is the general state of being.

The company is a legal entity.

Sentence Patterns

The existence of [noun] is [adjective].

The existence of the sun is good.

He/She has a [adjective] existence.

He has a quiet existence.

[Noun] came into existence in [year].

The school came into existence in 1950.

The existence of [noun] threatens [noun].

The existence of the virus threatens the population.

The very existence of [noun] is a testament to [noun].

The very existence of these ruins is a testament to their skill.

The ontological nature of [noun]'s existence is [adjective].

The ontological nature of human existence is complex.

There are only a few [noun] in existence.

There are only a few tigers in existence.

They were forced to justify their existence.

The committee had to justify its existence.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in academic, scientific, and formal writing; less common in casual daily speech.

Common Mistakes

The existance of the moon. → The existence of the moon.
Spelling error: it's 'existence' with an 'e,' not an 'a.'
They existence in the forest. → They exist in the forest.
Confusing the noun 'existence' with the verb 'exist.'
I am questioning existence of God. → I am questioning the existence of God.
Missing the definite article 'the' before 'existence of.'
He has a very busy existence. → He has a very busy life.
Using 'existence' when 'life' is more natural for daily activities.
The dinosaurs' existence ended millions of years ago. → The dinosaurs became extinct millions of years ago.
While grammatically okay, 'extinct' is the more precise term for species.

Tips

Use 'the' with 'of'

When you use 'existence' followed by 'of' and another noun, always use 'the' before it. For example: 'the existence of life.'

Existence vs. Life

Use 'existence' for formal or scientific contexts and 'life' for personal or biological contexts.

The 'E' Rule

Remember the word 'exist' ends in 't'. When adding '-ence', the 'e' stays. E-X-I-S-T-E-N-C-E.

Vary Your Verbs

Instead of always saying something 'is there,' use 'the existence of [thing] was confirmed' to sound more professional.

Lifestyle Description

When describing a person's life with an adjective like 'solitary' or 'precarious,' 'existence' is often more evocative than 'life.'

In Existence

Use 'in existence' at the end of a sentence to emphasize that something is the only one or the oldest of its kind.

Existentialism

If you are writing about philosophy, remember that 'existence' is a key term in existentialist thought.

Justify Your Existence

This is a common phrase in business meaning to prove that a department or project is still valuable.

Evidence of Existence

In scientific writing, always talk about 'evidence of the existence of' rather than just 'seeing' something.

Cease to Exist

Use this phrase for a more dramatic and final way of saying something has ended or disappeared.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'EX' (out) + 'IST' (stand) + 'ENCE' (state). Existence is the state of standing out and being real. If you 'exist,' you 'stand out' in the world.

Visual Association

Imagine a bright light appearing in a dark room. The light represents 'existence'—it is now there, visible, and real, where before there was nothing.

Word Web

Life Being Reality Survival Presence Entity Creation Truth

Challenge

Try to use 'existence' in three different ways today: once to describe a real thing, once to describe a way of life, and once using the phrase 'in existence'.

Word Origin

The word 'existence' comes from the Old French word 'existence,' which in turn comes from the Late Latin 'existentia.' This Latin term is derived from the verb 'existere' (or 'exsistere'), meaning 'to stand forth, emerge, or appear.'

Original meaning: The original Latin meaning 'to stand forth' or 'emerge' suggests that existence is about something becoming visible or real by stepping out of nothingness.

It belongs to the Indo-European language family, specifically the Italic branch via Latin.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'existence' to describe someone's life; if you call it a 'miserable existence,' it can sound very harsh or pitying.

In English-speaking countries, 'existence' is often used in legal and scientific contexts to provide a formal and objective tone.

To be, or not to be: that is the question' (Shakespeare's Hamlet - a classic exploration of existence). Existence precedes essence' (Jean-Paul Sartre). The struggle for existence' (Charles Darwin).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Science

existence of life
prove the existence
evidence of existence
biological existence

Philosophy

meaning of existence
human existence
nature of existence
existence precedes essence

Law/Business

legal existence
existence of a contract
corporate existence
acknowledge existence

Environment

threaten the existence
continued existence
existence of a species
fragile existence

Daily Life

peaceful existence
solitary existence
precarious existence
daily existence

Conversation Starters

"Do you believe in the existence of life on other planets?"

"What do you think is the most important thing for a happy existence?"

"How has the existence of the internet changed your daily life?"

"If you could bring one thing into existence that doesn't exist now, what would it be?"

"Do you think the existence of social media has made people more or less lonely?"

Journal Prompts

Describe what a 'perfect existence' would look like for you. Where would you be, and what would you do?

Reflect on the existence of a specific memory. Why has it stayed with you for so long?

Write about a time when you had to justify your existence or the importance of your work to someone else.

How does the existence of nature affect your mood and well-being? Describe a specific experience.

Ponder the existence of fate. Do you believe things happen for a reason, or is existence random?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It can be both. It is uncountable when referring to the general state of being (e.g., 'Existence is a mystery'). It is countable when referring to a specific way of life (e.g., 'He led a peaceful existence').

Existence is more formal and refers to the fact of being real. Life is more personal and refers to biological processes or the experience of living. You would say 'the existence of a virus' but 'the life of a person.'

It is spelled E-X-I-S-T-E-N-C-E. A common mistake is to spell it with an 'a' (existance), but it always uses an 'e' in the third syllable.

It means to start existing or to be created. It is a formal way of saying something began. For example, 'The new law came into existence last year.'

It means to stop existing or to end completely. For example, 'If we don't protect the forest, many animals will cease to exist.'

Yes, 'existences' is used in philosophical or literary contexts when referring to multiple different ways of being or multiple lives, but it is quite rare.

It is a threat that could end the existence of something, like a species, a country, or even all of humanity. It is a very serious term.

Use it to mean 'that currently exists,' often to emphasize rarity. For example, 'This is the only known copy of the book in existence.'

The adjective form is 'existent' (meaning currently real) or 'existential' (relating to the nature of existence).

The direct opposite is 'nonexistence.' Other opposites depending on context include 'absence' or 'extinction.'