What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
survive
Example
The hiker was able to survive in the wilderness for three days with limited supplies. [survive: verb]
Example
The patient is expected to survive the surgery and make a full recovery. [survive: verb]
Example
The company was able to survive the economic downturn by cutting costs and increasing efficiency. [survive: verb]
withstand
Example
The building was able to withstand the strong winds of the hurricane. [withstand: verb]
Example
She was able to withstand the criticism and continue pursuing her dreams. [withstand: verb]
Example
The athlete had to withstand the pain of a sprained ankle to finish the race. [withstand: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Survive is more commonly used than withstand in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and situations. Withstand is more formal and less frequently used, but can be useful in specific situations where resistance or endurance is emphasized.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between survive and withstand?
Withstand is generally considered more formal than survive, and is often used in academic or technical writing. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.
