Exist

Definition

Exist is a verb that means to have actual being or to be real. It can also refer to being alive, present, or in a particular state or place.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzɪst/
• Respelling: ig-ZIST

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzɪst/
• Respelling: ig-ZIST

Etymology

The word "exist" originates from the Latin "existere" or "exsistere," which means "to stand out" or "to appear." This is derived from "ex-" (out of) and "sistere" (to stand or to be). The term entered English in the late 16th century, gaining the meaning of "having presence" or "being real."

Derivatives

• Existence (noun)
• Existent (adjective)
• Existential (adjective)
• Coexist (verb)
• Nonexistence (noun)

Synonyms

• Live
• Be
• Subsist

Antonyms

• Vanish
• Disappear
• Perish

Usage

The verb "exist" is widely used to describe being alive, real, or present, as in "Dinosaurs no longer exist" or "We exist within a complex universe." It often emphasizes presence or reality in philosophical, scientific, or everyday contexts.

Related Terms

• Reality: The state of being real or actual.
• Presence: The state of existing in a specific place or time.
• Life: The condition that distinguishes living things from inanimate objects.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To have actual being or to be real: Refers to the state of being present or existing in reality.
  • Example: "Ancient civilizations existed long before modern times."
• To live or be alive: Describes the state of life or continued survival.
  • Example: "Many creatures exist in the depths of the ocean."
• To be present in a particular place or condition: Indicates being within a certain state or situation.
  • Example: "The company continues to exist despite financial challenges."