Survival: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to the act of staying alive or continuing to exist, especially in difficult conditions or situations.

• The survivors of the shipwreck were praised for their survival skills.
• Survival in the wild requires a lot of knowledge and preparation.

This word is generally used in a broader sense to denote the state of being alive or real. It can refer to life in general or the presence of something.

• The existence of extraterrestrial life is a topic of much debate.
• His existence felt empty without a purpose or goal.

This word fits well when talking about the ability to withstand hardship or stress over a long period. It often implies a degree of mental or physical toughness.

• Completing a marathon requires both physical and mental endurance.
• Her endurance was tested during the rigorous training program.

Resilience is best used when describing the ability to recover quickly from difficulties or adapt to change. It has a positive connotation of strength and recovery.

• Her resilience after the accident inspired everyone around her.
• The community showed great resilience in rebuilding after the earthquake.

Use when describing the act of continuing to live or exist, especially in challenging conditions.

• The survival of the plant species is threatened by pollution.
• His survival in the wilderness was a testament to his ingenuity and resilience.

Use when discussing the ability to work successfully or to live, often in business, economic, or biological contexts.

• The viability of the startup depends on securing adequate funding.
• Biologists are uncertain about the viability of the newly discovered species.

Use when referring to the ability to maintain or support over the long term, often used in environmental, economic, or social contexts.

• The new policies are aimed at ensuring the sustainability of natural resources.
• Sustainability practices in business can lead to long-term growth and success.

Use when emphasizing the quality of continuing to put in effort despite difficulties or delays in achieving success.

• Her perseverance in finishing the marathon despite the injury was inspiring.
• He showed great perseverance in overcoming obstacles to complete his project.

Refers to the act of staying alive, often used in the context of life-threatening situations or overcoming adversity.

• His survival in the wilderness was nothing short of a miracle
• The refugees are struggling for survival in the harsh conditions

Refers to actions taken to protect oneself from harm or death, often used in the context of personal safety and well-being.

• His reaction was purely driven by self-preservation
• In moments of danger, self-preservation becomes the priority

Refers to a natural or inherent impulse or behavior, often used in the context of animals or subconscious human actions.

• The mother cat's instinct led her to protect her kittens
• She had a gut instinct that something was wrong

Refers to the practice of preparing for emergencies and potential disasters, often used by individuals or groups known as survivalists.

• Survivalism has become more popular with the rise of natural disasters
• He is deeply involved in survivalism and spends weekends training for emergencies