B2noun2K

Survivor

UK /["/səˈvaɪvə(r)/"]/US /["/sərˈvaɪvər/"]/

Definition

a person who continues to live, especially despite being nearly killed or experiencing great danger or difficulty

In simple words: A person who stays alive after something dangerous or difficult.

Examples

  • The lone survivor was found after the shipwreck and told a remarkable story of courage.
  • She is a cancer survivor who now helps raise awareness for early detection.
  • In the reality TV show, every contestant is a survivor who must face tough challenges.
  • Only the strongest survivor managed to climb out of the dangerous situation.
  • The documentary interviewed survivors of the earthquake to share their experiences.

Usage notes

Use 'survivor' to describe someone who has survived a disaster or difficult experience. It's neutral and appropriate in serious contexts, but could be seen as overly dramatic in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

survivor + of + event/situation

Memory hint

Think of a 'survivor' winning a reality show after facing many challenges.

Collocations

  • the last
  • the only
  • a rare
  • be
  • find
  • pick up
  • guilt
  • survivor from

Synonyms

  • survivor
  • overcomer
  • resilient person
  • fighter
  • endurer

Antonyms

  • victim
  • casualty
  • loser

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'survive' which is a verb.
  • Using 'survivors' when referring to a group but missing the context of a specific event.
  • Mistaking it for a general term applicable in any context.