A2verb1K

Exist

UK /["/ɪɡˈzɪst/","/ɪɡˈzɪsts/","/ɪɡˈzɪstɪd/","/ɪɡˈzɪstɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪɡˈzɪst/","/ɪɡˈzɪsts/","/ɪɡˈzɪstɪd/","/ɪɡˈzɪstɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to be real; to be present in a place or situation

In simple words: To be real or to live.

Examples

  • I believe that other planets may exist beyond our solar system.
  • Do you think that ghosts really exist?
  • Some scientists argue that life does not exist on Mars.
  • In some cultures, people believe that spirits exist after death.
  • Many species exist in the rainforest that are yet to be discovered.

Usage notes

Use 'exist' when talking about the state of being. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts but can sound philosophical when discussing abstract subjects.

Grammar pattern

exist + object

Memory hint

Think of 'exist' as 'ex-is-t', like 'there's something that is'.

Collocations

  • actually
  • really
  • already
  • be known to
  • appear to
  • be believed to

Synonyms

  • be
  • occur
  • live
  • subsist
  • prevail

Antonyms

  • cease
  • disappear
  • terminate

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'existed' vs 'exists' when discussing past or present tense.
  • Using 'exist' without an object when context requires one (e.g., 'Does love exist?').
  • Mixing up with 'live' which implies active living rather than just being.