existence
/ɛɡ.ˈzɪs.təns/
The word describes the most basic state of being. In its first sense, it is an objective, factual claim—either something is present in reality or it is not. It carries a neutral, often scientific or philosophical tone when discussing whether something "exists." In its second sense, it shifts from a factual state to a qualitative experience. Here, it describes the texture of a person's life. Using "existence" instead of "life" often implies a certain distance, monotony, or struggle, suggesting a state of merely surviving rather than thriving. Compared to "life," which feels vibrant and biological, "existence" can feel colder, more abstract, or more precarious.
Uncountable when referring to the universal state of being real or alive ('the existence of dark matter'). Countable when describing a specific lifestyle or a person's lived experience ('he led a miserable existence').
💬Casual Conversation
Chloe's losing it. Does your existence even revolve around anything other than gaming?
damn that's crazy. i'm almost at level 60 though.
Meanings
Etymology
Derived from the Middle English existence, which evolved from the Old French existence, originating from the Latin existentia. This is rooted in the Latin verb exsistere, where ex- meaning out of and sistere meaning to stand or cause to stand, literally suggesting the act of stepping forth or emerging into view.