What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alive
Example
The baby bird was still alive when we found it. [alive: adjective]
Example
I feel so alive when I'm dancing. [alive: adjective]
Example
The party came alive when the music started playing. [alive: adverb]
living
Example
The living room is where we spend most of our time. [living: adjective]
Example
Living organisms require water to survive. [living: adjective]
Example
She has a very healthy way of living. [living: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Living is more commonly used than alive in everyday language. Living is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while alive is more specific and tends to be used in more limited situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between alive and living?
Both alive and living are relatively informal words that can be used in casual conversation. However, living can also be used in more formal contexts, such as academic writing or professional settings.