Alive
UK /["/əˈlaɪv/"]/US /["/əˈlaɪv/"]/
Definition
living; not dead
In simple words: Living, not dead.
Examples
- The plant is still alive after all these years.
- She felt very much alive during the concert.
- After the accident, he was happy to be alive.
- In the movie, the character is alive even after the supposed death.
Usage notes
Used to describe something or someone that has life. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though in very casual speech, it might take on a more emotional connotation, especially when referring to safety or survival.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Sounds like 'A live' — imagine something that's currently active or buzzing with energy.
Collocations
- be
- seem
- remain
- very much
- barely
- only half
- alive and kicking
- alive and well
- dead or alive
- be
- feel
- seem
- really
- truly
- very
- with
- be
- remain
- keep something
- very much
- alive and well
- be
- feel
- seem
- really
- truly
- very
- with
- be
- become
- remain
- very much
- to
Synonyms
- come to life
- come to life
Antonyms
- dead
- unconscious
- inanimate
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'live' as a verb.
- Using 'alive' in contexts where 'living' is more appropriate.
- Confusing it with 'alive' in the sense of being aware or fresh.