Meaning of Word
Existing refers to something that is present, real, or currently in existence. It describes something that is already established or in place, as opposed to something that is new, potential, or hypothetical.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Existing refers to something that is currently in existence or active, whether it is a person, thing, condition, or state.
- It can also refer to something that is currently being used, available, or in operation.
- Existing is often used to describe something that is already established or present, as opposed to something newly created or imagined.
History and Origin
The word existing comes from the Latin existere, meaning “to stand forth” or “to appear,” derived from ex- (out of) and sistere (to stand). It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe things or conditions that are real, actual, or present in the world.
Detailed Explanation
To describe something as existing means that it has a presence in the current moment, whether it is tangible or intangible. It can refer to objects, people, states, or circumstances that are part of reality. For example, an existing business is one that has already been established and is currently operating, as opposed to a business that is planned or under construction. Similarly, an existing condition refers to the present state of something, as opposed to something that might change or be created in the future.
The term also contrasts with the idea of potentiality or future existence, highlighting the difference between what is present and what may come into being.
Example Sentences
- The existing rules did not address the new challenges posed by the technology.
- We need to improve the existing infrastructure before expanding the project.
- The existing laws are outdated and need to be revised.
- The existing software version has some bugs that need to be fixed.
- There is a shortage of existing housing in the area, making new developments necessary.
- The existing relationship between the two companies is strong and beneficial.
- We are assessing the existing situation to determine what improvements can be made.
- The existing evidence suggests that the theory is correct.
- The existing conditions make it difficult for students to concentrate in class.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Current: Referring to something happening or existing at the present time, similar to existing.
- Present: Something that is currently in existence or available, much like existing.
- Ongoing: Something that is continuing or active, often used in the context of an existing process or condition.
- Active: In operation or functioning, closely related to existing when referring to something that is present and functioning.
- Available: Something that is accessible or ready for use, often describing existing resources or options.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Established: Something that has been set up and is already in existence, often referring to existing institutions or practices.
- Real: Something that exists in actuality, as opposed to being imagined or hypothetical, closely related to existing.
- Present-day: Referring to the current time or circumstances, often used interchangeably with existing in the context of time.
- Prevalent: Existing widely or commonly, especially in a particular time or place, akin to existing conditions.
- Functional: In working order or condition, often used to describe existing systems or equipment.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Active: In operation or functioning, akin to existing when referring to something ongoing.
- Live: Currently operating or functioning, similar to existing when describing an active state.
- Factual: Based on actual facts or reality, often linked to something existing or real.
- Tangible: Something that can be perceived by touch or is concrete, often used to describe an existing object.
- Permanent: Something that lasts or remains, often associated with an existing state or condition.
Antonyms
- Nonexistent: Not existing or present, the direct opposite of existing.
- Imaginary: Existing only in the imagination and not in reality, contrary to being existing.
- Unreal: Not real or genuine, opposite of something that is existing.
- Fictitious: Created or invented, not actually existing, in contrast to something that is existing.
- Absent: Not present or available, the opposite of something that is existing in a particular place or situation.