Being: meaning, definitions and examples

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being

[ˈbiːɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

human existence

the state or quality of having existence or substance

Synonyms

essence, existence, presence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
being	Focuses on the state of living or existence, often used in philosophical or poetic contexts. Human beings have an amazing ability to adapt She pondered the meaning of her being
existence	Describes the state of living or having reality, often used in everyday conversation as well as in philosophical discussions. The existence of life on other planets is still a mystery His mere existence brought peace to the troubled village
essence	Refers to the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something that determines its character, often used in philosophical, literary, or descriptive contexts. The essence of democracy is freedom and equality Capturing the essence of the story was challenging for the writer
presence	Highlights the state of being present in a place or situation, often used in social, physical, or metaphorical contexts. Her presence at the meeting made a big difference The warm presence of the sun made the day perfect

Examples of usage

Being is a fundamental concept in philosophy.
He pondered the meaning of his own being.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

living organism

an individual living thing

Synonyms

creature, entity, organism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
being	Used to describe a living entity, particularly in a philosophical or abstract context. It emphasizes the existence or presence of life. Human beings must work together to solve global issues. She felt a profound connection to every being in the universe.
creature	Often refers to animals or mythical beings, highlighting a sense of wonder or difference from humans. Can sometimes have a negative connotation when used to describe humans. The forest is home to many fascinating creatures. He was a strange creature, always lurking in the shadows.
organism	Used primarily in scientific or biological contexts to describe any living system, such as plants, animals, fungi, etc. Every organism in the ecosystem plays a vital role. The human body is a complex organism with many interdependent systems.
entity	Typically used to denote something that has a separate and distinct existence, often in legal, technical, or organizational contexts. Neutral in tone. The company was recognized as a separate legal entity. Artificial intelligence has become an entity in its own right.

Examples of usage

All living beings need food and water to survive.
The forest was teeming with various beings.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

existing

to exist or live

Synonyms

existing, living, surviving.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
being	As a noun, it can also mean a living creature, usually a person, emphasizing individuality. She is a kind and compassionate being All human beings deserve respect
existing	Indicates presence or reality in a current state, often used in a more neutral or technical context. The existing laws need to be reformed The company is trying to improve its existing product line
living	Emphasizes the state of being alive, often focusing on lifestyle, vitality, or experiences. They are living a happy life in the countryside Good nutrition is essential for a healthy living
surviving	Implies continuing to live or exist despite difficulties or life-threatening circumstances, often with a sense of struggle or hardship. The survivors of the accident are now in the hospital She is barely surviving on her current income

Examples of usage

I think, therefore I am, is a famous quote about being.
She enjoys being in nature.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

In philosophical discussions, 'being' often refers to what it means to exist, a core question in existentialism.
René Descartes famously stated, 'I think, therefore I am,' highlighting thought as a key element of being.
Heidegger argued that we should focus on 'being' in terms of our experience and connection to the world around us.

Linguistics

'Being' serves as both a noun and a verb; it can describe existence as well as an ongoing action.
In grammar, 'being' is often used in progressive tenses to indicate continuous action, like 'is running' or 'was eating.'
The verb 'to be' has many forms (am, is, are, was, were) and is one of the most irregular verbs in English.

Psychology

The concept of 'being' ties closely to self-identity and how individuals perceive themselves within society.
Psychologists study 'being present' or mindfulness, which focuses on enhancing awareness of the current moment.
Existential psychology explores the challenges of existence and how individuals create meaning in their own lives.

Science

In biology, 'being' is often associated with life forms, starting from single-celled organisms to complex human beings.
The study of consciousness raises questions about what it means to be aware or to exist in a meaningful way.
Astrobiology examines the possibility of extraterrestrial 'beings' existing beyond Earth.

Art and Literature

Many poets explore the theme of 'being' in their work, questioning existence and the human experience.
Literary characters often face dilemmas about their own 'being,' reflecting personal struggles and growth.
Art movements, such as existentialism in literature, emphasize the challenges humans face in understanding their own place in the world.

Translations

Translations of the word "being" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ser

🇮🇳 अस्तित्व

🇩🇪 Sein

🇮🇩 keberadaan

🇺🇦 існування

🇵🇱 istnienie

🇯🇵 存在 (そんざい)

🇫🇷 être

🇪🇸 ser

🇹🇷 varlık

🇰🇷 존재

🇸🇦 وجود

🇨🇿 bytí

🇸🇰 bytie

🇨🇳 存在 (cúnzài)

🇸🇮 bivanje

🇮🇸 vera

🇰🇿 болмыс

🇬🇪 არსებობა

🇦🇿 varlıq

🇲🇽 ser