Existent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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existent

[ษชษกหˆzษชstษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

state of being

The term 'existent' refers to something that has actual being or existence. It describes entities that are present or real, rather than hypothetical or imagined. In philosophical discussions, the concept of existence is crucial, as it pertains to what it means for something to be. Often, 'existent' is used to highlight the distinction between what is real and what is not, helping to frame debates about reality and perception.

Synonyms

actual, living, present, real.

Examples of usage

  • All existent beings deserve respect.
  • Philosophers often debate the nature of existent realities.
  • In the realm of science, only observable and existent phenomena are considered.

Translations

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Origin of 'existent'

The word 'existent' originates from the Latin 'existere', which means 'to stand out' or 'to be'. This Latin verb combines the prefix 'ex-', meaning 'out of' or 'from', with 'sistere', which means 'to stand'. The evolution of the term reflects a focus on being and presence in a physical or conceptual sense. The Latin roots give insight into philosophical inquiries regarding existence, as ancient thinkers grappled with the nature of beings and their place in reality. Over time, 'existent' entered the English lexicon, capturing the essence of tangible and intangible entities that hold significance in various contexts, from everyday use to deep philosophical discourse. Understanding the history of 'existent' enhances comprehension of its current usage in contemporary discussions about existence and reality.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,691, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.