Existing: meaning, definitions and examples

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existing

[ɪɡˈzɪstɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in general use

Having objective reality or being in fact.

Synonyms

actual, current, present, real.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
existing	When talking about something that is already in place or available, use 'existing'. Often used in relation to systems, conditions, or items that are already established. We need to improve our existing infrastructure The existing laws need to be re-evaluated
actual	This word emphasizes the reality or truth of something, especially when distinguishing from an assumption or a different expectation. The actual cost was higher than expected What is the actual color of the product?
real	This word is used to emphasize authenticity or existence as opposed to being imaginary or fictional. Often used to stress that something is genuine or factual. Is this a real diamond? The real story behind the event is quite fascinating
present	Applicable when describing something or someone in attendance, in existence now, or happening at this moment. She is present at the meeting The present situation requires immediate attention
current	Use this word when referring to things that are happening now or pertaining to the present time, particularly trends, conditions, or statuses. The current weather is quite cold The current market trends show a decline

Examples of usage

It's an existing problem that needs to be addressed.
His existing condition requires immediate medical attention.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in formal use

Something that exists; an entity or being.

Synonyms

being, entity, existence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
existing	Repeated instance: Use this word when referring to something that is currently present or continuing in its current state. Many people rely on the existing infrastructure. We need to improve our existing technology.
entity	This word is used to describe something that exists as a single and complete unit, often in legal, business, or scientific contexts. The government entity will handle the permits. A business entity must adhere to certain regulations.
being	This word is often used in philosophical or abstract contexts to refer to the state or condition of existence. The question of human being has been debated for centuries. Her very being seemed to light up the room.
existence	This word is suitable for discussing the fact or state of living or having objective reality, often in a broader or philosophical sense. The existence of extraterrestrial life is still unproven. His existence became more meaningful after the birth of his child.

Examples of usage

The company aims to create a better world for existing and future generations.
He's one of the few existing examples of this rare species.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin word 'existere,' meaning 'to stand out' or 'to appear.'
In Middle English, it evolved from 'existen', showing how it has retained its basic meaning over centuries.
The prefix 'ex-' means 'out of,' while 'sist' relates to 'standing,' emphasizing being present.

Philosophy

Philosophers like Descartes used the concept of existence to discuss life, stating 'I think, therefore I am.'
In existential philosophy, the focus is on individual existence and the choices that define one’s being.
Existentialism urges individuals to find personal meaning in their existence amidst life's chaos.

Science

In biology, existing refers to living organisms that adapt, reproduce, and interact with their environment.
Physicists inquire into existence by studying the universe's origins, addressing questions about what it means to exist.
The concept of existence in quantum mechanics raises debates about objects only being 'real' when observed.

Culture

Art often explores themes of existence, questioning what it means to be alive and aware.
Many cultural narratives reflect on human existence through storytelling, emphasizing experiences and emotions.
Existential themes are prevalent in films, where characters face choices about their very being and purpose.

Translations

Translations of the word "existing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 existente

🇮🇳 मौजूद

🇩🇪 vorhanden

🇮🇩 ada

🇺🇦 існуючий

🇵🇱 istniejący

🇯🇵 存在する (sonzai suru)

🇫🇷 existant

🇪🇸 existente

🇹🇷 var olan

🇰🇷 존재하는 (jonjaehaneun)

🇸🇦 موجود

🇨🇿 existující

🇸🇰 existujúci

🇨🇳 现有的 (xiàn yǒu de)

🇸🇮 obstoječ

🇮🇸 til staðar

🇰🇿 бар

🇬🇪 არსებული (arsebuli)

🇦🇿 mövcud

🇲🇽 existente

Word Frequency Rank

At #746 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

...
743 sale
744 earlier
745 distance
746 existing
747 looking
748 operations
749 fall
...