What is existence? Pronunciation and usage in English

existence means . Learn how to pronounce and use existence through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of existence

existencenoun

/ɪɡˈzɪst(ə)ns//ɛɡˈzɪst(ə)ns/
Definition & pronunciation of existence

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "existence" in English. It can be a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "existence" is broken down into three syllables:

  • ex - like the beginning of "example"
  • ist - like "ist" in "artist" (short "i" sound)
  • ence - like "sense"

2. Phonetic Pronunciation (using IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

This is the most precise way to represent the sound:

  • /ɪkˈzɪstəns/

Let's break that down:

  • /ɪ/: A short, quick "i" sound, like in "bit"
  • /k/: As in "cat"
  • /ˈ/: This indicates the primary stress, which falls on the first syllable ("ex").
  • /zɪ/: Again, a short "i" sound, but this time blended with the "z" sound (it's almost like a combined "iz" sound).
  • /stər/: The "st" sound followed by a "r" sound.
  • /ns/: The "n" sound followed by the "s" sound.

3. A Step-by-Step Guide to Saying it:

  1. Start with "ex": Say "ex" like the beginning of “example.”
  2. Add "ist": Say "ist" like "artist" (short "i").
  3. Add "ence": Say "ence" like "sense." Make sure to pronounce the "s" at the end.

4. Listen to Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

Key Tips:

  • Stress: Emphasize the first syllable ("ex").
  • Short "i" Sound: The "i" in "ist" is a short, un-voweled "i" sound. Don't say "ice."
  • Smooth Flow: Try to link the syllables together smoothly rather than saying them as separate words.

Do you want me to:

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Usage and examples with the word existence in English

Let's break down how to use the word "existence" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different shades of meaning. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. As a Noun – The Core Meaning: Being or Reality

  • Definition: This is the most common use. "Existence" refers to the state of being real, of actually existing. It’s about something being rather than just being an idea.

  • Examples:

    • "The existence of life on other planets is a topic of ongoing scientific debate." (Are other planets actually inhabited?)
    • “His belief in ghosts is purely a matter of personal existence.” (His belief is his own experience, not an established fact.)
    • "The poet explored themes of love and loss throughout his existence." (Referring to his whole lifetime)
    • “We must acknowledge the existence of poverty in our community.” (Acknowledging that poverty is a real condition.)

2. As a Noun – The State of Existing; Being Alive

  • Definition: This specifically refers to living things – being alive and active.

  • Examples:

    • “The existence of trees is crucial for maintaining a healthy ecosystem.” (Trees are living organisms.)
    • "The existence of the species is threatened by deforestation.” (The species is at risk of not continuing to exist).

3. Philosophically – The Question of Being

  • Definition: In philosophy, “existence” often deals with the fundamental nature of being. It asks questions like: "What does it mean for something to exist?" and "What is the difference between being and appearing?"

  • Examples:

    • "Philosophers have debated the nature of existence for centuries." (Thinking deeply about what it means to be.)
    • “He questioned the existence of free will.” (Was our choice truly free, or predetermined?)
    • "The concept of a non-existent object raises interesting questions about logic and reality.” (Thinking about something that cannot be).

4. More Formal/Literary Usage - A Formal Way to Say “To Exist”

  • Definition: It can be used as a more elegant or formal replacement for "to exist."

  • Examples:

    • “The existence of the artifact provided crucial evidence.” (Instead of "The artifact existed...")
    • “Her existence was a testament to her resilience.” (Instead of "She existed...")

Here's how to use "existence" effectively – some tips:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "existence" depends heavily on the context of the sentence.
  • It’s often formal: It's a slightly more formal word than "existence" or “being.” You’ll find it more common in academic writing, philosophical discussion, or more literary contexts.
  • Pair it with verbs: It’s often used with verbs like “question,” “acknowledge,” “threaten,” “explore,” “debate,” “confirm,” “deny,” "challenge”.

Let’s test your understanding!

Here are a few sentences. What does "existence" refer to in each?

  1. “The continued existence of the rainforest is vital.”
  2. “He pondered the existence of God.”
  3. “Despite her illness, she fought for the existence of her community’s traditions.”

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use “existence” in specific contexts (e.g., science, literature, philosophy)?
  • Help you write a sentence using “existence” correctly?

Synonyms for the word existence

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