What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alive
Example
The flowers are still alive despite the harsh weather conditions. [alive: adjective]
Example
I'm so glad you're alive! [alive: adverb]
Example
The party was alive with music and dancing. [alive: adjective]
surviving
Example
The plants are surviving in the desert with very little water. [surviving: verb]
Example
He is a cancer survivor and an inspiration to many. [survivor: noun]
Example
The company is surviving the economic downturn by adapting to new market trends. [surviving: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alive is a more common word than surviving in everyday language. Alive is used in a variety of contexts, while surviving is more specific to situations where something has overcome a challenge or obstacle.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between alive and surviving?
Both alive and surviving are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversation. However, surviving may be more commonly used in more serious or emotional situations, such as discussing a life-threatening illness or a natural disaster.
