survive
/səˈvʌɪv/
The primary image is one of endurance against odds. It suggests a struggle where the outcome is not merely existing, but continuing to exist despite a threat, disaster, or hostile environment. While "live" describes the state of being alive, "survive" emphasizes the precariousness of that state. There is often an implied intensity—a narrow escape or a grueling period of hardship. In modern casual usage, it is frequently used hyperbolically to describe enduring an unpleasant but non-lethal experience, such as surviving a tedious meeting or a difficult exam. When used in the context of people, it can also mean outliving someone else, shifting the nuance from struggle to chronological sequence.
💬Casual Conversation
Think your Q3 numbers will survive the audit?
We're iterating on the synergy, Victoria. Confident we'll pivot.
Meanings
To continue to live or exist, especially after a dangerous event or a long period of time.
"The small plant managed to survive the harsh winter."
To remain alive after a life-threatening experience or disaster.
"He was lucky to survive the plane crash."
Collocations & Compounds
survive a disaster
To remain alive or in existence after an event that could cause death or destruction.
She was the only one to survive the disaster.
survive an illness
To remain alive after experiencing a serious or life-threatening disease.
Many people thought he wouldn't survive the illness, but he pulled through.
survive the winter
To endure and remain alive through the cold and often scarce conditions of winter.
The hardy plants managed to survive the winter.
survive a crash
To remain alive after being involved in a vehicle or aircraft accident.
Remarkably, the pilot managed to survive the crash.
survive a fall
To remain alive or unharmed after falling from a height.
Against all odds, the climber managed to survive the fall.
Phrasal Verbs
survive on
To manage to live or continue to exist, especially with difficulty, using only a particular amount of money or food.
He had to survive on very little food during the expedition.
survive through
To continue to live or exist during a difficult period or event.
The small business managed to survive through the recession.
Idioms & Sayings
survival of the fittest
The principle that the strongest or most adaptable individuals in a population are most likely to survive and reproduce.
In the competitive business world, it often feels like survival of the fittest.
learn to survive
To acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to cope with difficult or challenging circumstances.
After being stranded, he had to quickly learn to survive in the wilderness.