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Phrasal verbs "live in" vs "live on"

Differences between live in and live on

Live in is used to describe where someone resides, while live on is used to describe how someone sustains themselves financially.

Meanings and Definitions: live in vs live on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Live in

  • 1Live in the place where you work or study..

    The university has a residential halls. where students can LIVE IN.

Live on

  • 1Use money for basic necessities.

    They have to LIVE ON $ 200 a week.

  • 2Not be forgotten.

    He's been dead for many years, but his name LIVES ON.

Usage Examples: live in, live on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

live in

Example

Many students choose to live in dormitories on campus.

Example

She lives in the house where she works as a caregiver.

live on

Example

Many people live on a tight budget to save money.

Example

She lives on a small pension after retiring.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Live in

reside in

To live or dwell in a particular place.

Example

She resides in a small apartment in the city center.

dwell in

To live or stay in a particular place for an extended period.

Example

The tribe used to dwell in the forest before moving to the plains.

inhabit

To live or occupy a particular place or region.

Example

Various species of birds inhabit the nearby wetlands during the winter season.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Live on

depend on

To rely on something or someone for support or sustenance.

Example

He depends on his parents for financial support while he finishes college.

survive on

To manage to live or sustain oneself with limited resources or income.

Example

Many families in the area survive on minimum wage jobs and government assistance.

make ends meet

To have enough money to cover one's basic expenses.

Example

Despite working two jobs, she still struggles to make ends meet and pay her bills on time.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “in”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in live in vs live on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: live in or live on?

Both live in and live on are commonly used in English. However, live in is more common in everyday conversation as it refers to a person's place of residence. Live on is less common but still frequently used.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of live in and live on

Both live in and live on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of live in and live on

The tone of live in and live on can differ based on context. Live in often carries a neutral tone when referring to someone's place of residence. Live on can carry a more serious or even negative tone when referring to someone's financial situation.

live in & live on: Synonyms and Antonyms

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