to be real or present in the world, to have a particular way of life, to continue to live, especially after a difficult or dangerous experience

exist in name only, exist on a shoestring, exist in a vacuum

Formal and Informal Expressions of exist

In different contexts, you can replace 'exist' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'be present, be alive' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'be around, be kicking, be breathing' is a commonplace synonym.

exist: Explore its Definition & Usage

exist Definition

1to be real or present in the world
2to have a particular way of life
3to continue to live, especially after a difficult or dangerous experience

Using exist: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "exist" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
Do aliens exist?
Example
The company no longer exists.
Example
Many species of animals that once existed are now extinct.
Example
He exists on a diet of fast food and soda.
Example
After the accident, she was lucky to exist.

exist Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for exist

Antonyms for exist

Phrases with exist

exist in name only
to be called something but not really exist or function as it should
Example
The committee exists in name only; they never actually meet or do anything.
exist on a shoestring
to survive with very little money
Example
As a struggling artist, she exists on a shoestring budget.
exist in a vacuum
to be isolated from the rest of the world or from other people's opinions or ideas
Example
You can't exist in a vacuum; you need to be open to other perspectives and feedback.

Origins of exist

from Latin 'existere', meaning 'to come into being'

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Summary: exist in Brief

To 'exist' [ɪɡˈzɪst] is to be real or present in the world, to have a particular way of life, or to continue living, especially after a difficult experience. Examples include 'Do aliens exist?' and 'After the accident, she was lucky to exist.' Phrases like 'exist in name only' and 'exist on a shoestring' describe situations where something barely functions or survives.