Survivor: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe someone who has overcome extreme challenges or crises, such as natural disasters, serious illnesses, or tragic events. It usually carries a positive connotation, highlighting the strength and resilience of the person.

• She is a cancer survivor who now helps others facing the disease.
• The survivors of the plane crash are receiving counseling.

Less common and often used in a more clinical or formal context. It simply states the fact that the person has lived through a particular ordeal.

• The rescue team found a survived person among the rubble.
• A survived person was discovered after a thorough search operation.

Primarily used to emphasize the person's status as a victim while also noting their survival. It is more likely to be used in legal, medical, or news reports, and often has a more neutral or somber tone compared to 'survivor'.

• The victim who survived the attack provided a detailed description of the suspect.
• Financial support was offered to the victim who survived the natural disaster.

This also refers to someone who endures through difficult circumstances, not limited to life-threatening scenarios. It can be used in a broader sense including emotional, social, and economic struggles.

• He's a survivor of tough economic times
• Being a cancer survivor gave her a new perspective on life

Similar to 'only survivor,' it is used to emphasize that a person is the one and only to have survived a specific incident. It tends to carry a strong emotional or dramatic undertone.

• He was the sole survivor of the shipwreck
• Knowing she was the sole survivor made her feel both fortunate and burdened

Used to describe someone who is the final remaining individual after others have perished or left. This word often adds a more dramatic or somber tone.

• He was the last survivor of his platoon
• As the last survivor, she felt a heavy responsibility to tell their story

Used when emphasizing that an individual is the sole person who survived a particular event, with a focus on the exclusivity of their survival.

• She was the only survivor of the plane crash
• As the only survivor of the disaster, his story was sought after by many journalists

Used to describe someone who has lived through a dangerous or challenging situation, such as an accident, a severe illness, or a natural disaster. The emphasis is often on the fact that the person is still alive despite significant adversity.

• After the earthquake, many survivors were found trapped under the rubble.
• She is a cancer survivor with an inspiring story.

Refers to someone who is able to recover quickly from difficulties and adapt well in the face of adversity. This term emphasizes strength and the ability to bounce back rather than just surviving.

• Even after losing his job, he remained a resilient person and quickly found new opportunities.
• She is known to be a resilient person, always handling stress with grace.

Typically used to describe someone who actively battles against obstacles or challenges. This word implies a sense of determination and combativeness. It can be both literal, like a boxer, or metaphorical, like someone battling illness.

• He's a real fighter, never giving up despite the setbacks.
• As a professional fighter, she trains hard every day.

Used to describe someone who not only survives difficult situations but also prospers and grows stronger from them. It carries a positive connotation, highlighting growth and success beyond mere survival.

• After overcoming her struggles, she became a thriver, excelling in her career and personal life.
• He turned his adversities into opportunities and is now a thriver in the business world.