Top 42 Slang For Existence – Meaning & Usage

Existence is a concept that has puzzled philosophers and scientists alike for centuries. But in the realm of modern slang, there are unique and trendy ways to refer to the simple act of being. From phrases that capture the essence of life to expressions that celebrate our very being, we’ve curated a list of the most captivating and relatable slang terms for existence. Dive into this listicle and discover how language can beautifully capture the essence of our existence in everyday conversations.

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1. Being

Refers to the state or condition of existing or living.

For example, someone might say, “I’m just trying to figure out my purpose for being.”
In a philosophical discussion, one might ponder, “What is the meaning of being?”
A person reflecting on their life might ask, “Am I truly happy with my being?”

2. Living

Describes the act of being alive, experiencing life, and engaging in various activities.

For instance, someone might say, “I’m not just surviving, I’m truly living.”
In a conversation about personal growth, one might declare, “I want to live my best life.”
A motivational speaker might exclaim, “Don’t just exist, start living!”

3. Existing

Refers to the state of simply existing or being present in the world.

For example, someone might say, “I feel like I’m just existing, not really living.”
In a discussion about purpose, one might ask, “What’s the point of existing if there’s no meaning?”
A person going through a tough time might express, “Right now, I’m just existing day by day.”

4. Surviving

Describes the act of staying alive and overcoming challenges or difficult situations.

For instance, someone might say, “I’ve been through a lot, but I’m still surviving.”
In a conversation about resilience, one might declare, “I’m a survivor, I can overcome anything.”
A person discussing a difficult experience might share, “Surviving that ordeal changed my perspective on life.”

5. Breathing

Refers to the basic act of inhaling and exhaling air, which is necessary for life.

For example, someone might say, “As long as I’m breathing, I’ll keep fighting.”
In a discussion about relaxation, one might suggest, “Take a deep breath and just focus on your breathing.”
A person emphasizing the importance of self-care might advise, “Don’t forget to take a moment to just breathe.”

6. Alive

This term refers to being alive and not dead. It can also be used to describe someone who is energetic and full of life.

For example, someone might say, “I’m just happy to be alive.”
A person who has survived a dangerous situation might exclaim, “I’m alive!”
When asked how they’re doing, someone might respond, “I’m alive and kicking!”

7. Thriving

To thrive means to grow or develop well, to be successful, or to prosper. It can be used to describe someone who is doing exceptionally well in various aspects of life.

For instance, someone might say, “I’m thriving in my career right now.”
A person who is excelling in their personal life might say, “I’m thriving in my relationships.”
When asked how they’re doing, someone might respond, “I’m thriving and loving life!”

8. Kicking

This term is often used to describe someone who is doing well or actively engaged in life. It can also be used to indicate that someone is alive and functioning.

For example, someone might say, “I’m still kicking at my age!”
A person who is actively involved in a project might say, “I’m kicking it into high gear.”
When asked how they’re doing, someone might respond, “I’m still kicking and enjoying every moment.”

9. Hanging in there

This phrase is used to express that someone is managing to survive or cope with a difficult situation. It implies that despite challenges, one is still holding on and not giving up.

For instance, someone might say, “I’m just hanging in there, taking it one day at a time.”
A person going through a tough time might say, “I’m hanging in there, trying to stay positive.”
When asked how they’re doing, someone might respond, “I’m hanging in there, thanks for asking.”

10. Staying afloat

This term is often used to describe someone who is managing to survive or cope with a difficult situation. It implies that despite challenges, one is able to stay above water and not sink.

For example, someone might say, “I’m just staying afloat, trying to keep my head above water.”
A person going through financial difficulties might say, “I’m staying afloat by budgeting and cutting expenses.”
When asked how they’re doing, someone might respond, “I’m staying afloat, thanks for your concern.”

11. Carrying forward

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is continuing with a task or situation despite challenges or obstacles.

For example, “Despite the setbacks, she is carrying forward with her plans.”
In a team meeting, someone might say, “Let’s acknowledge the difficulties but focus on carrying forward with our project.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Life is full of ups and downs, but it’s important to keep carrying forward and never give up.”

12. Moving forward

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is making progress or advancing in a certain aspect of their life or a specific situation.

For instance, “After the breakup, she decided to focus on moving forward and finding happiness.”
In a business context, a manager might say, “Let’s analyze the past mistakes and come up with a plan for moving forward.”
A personal development coach might advise, “To achieve your goals, it’s essential to set clear intentions and keep moving forward.”

13. Striving on

This phrase is used to describe someone who is persistently working towards their goals or continuing despite difficulties or challenges.

For example, “Even in the face of adversity, he keeps striving on to achieve his dreams.”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “No matter the score, we need to keep striving on and give our best.”
A motivational speaker might encourage the audience by saying, “Life might knock you down, but it’s important to keep striving on and never lose hope.”

14. Pressing on

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is persistently moving forward or continuing with a task or situation, despite obstacles or challenges.

For instance, “Despite the setbacks, she is pressing on with her plans.”
In a work environment, a colleague might say, “Let’s acknowledge the difficulties but keep pressing on to meet the deadline.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “Don’t let the setbacks discourage you. Keep pressing on and give your best.”

15. Holding it together

This phrase is used to describe someone who is managing to stay calm and composed in a difficult or challenging situation.

For example, “Despite the chaos, she is holding it together and keeping a positive attitude.”
In a stressful work environment, a colleague might say, “It’s a tough situation, but we need to hold it together and find a solution.”
A friend might compliment another by saying, “You’re really good at holding it together even in the most challenging times.”

16. Presence

This term refers to the state or fact of existing, occurring, or being present in a particular place or situation.

For example, a person might say, “I felt her presence in the room even though I couldn’t see her.”
In a discussion about spirituality, someone might mention, “Meditation helps me connect with a higher presence.”
A motivational speaker might encourage the audience by saying, “Embrace the power of your presence and make a difference in the world.”

17. Reality

This word refers to the existence of real things or actual events, as opposed to imagined or fictional ones.

For instance, someone might say, “We need to face the reality of the situation and come up with a solution.”
In a philosophical debate, one might argue, “Reality is subjective and can vary from person to person.”
A person sharing a personal experience might say, “I had to confront the harsh realities of life at a young age.”

18. Existence

This term refers to the state or fact of being real, alive, or present in the world.

For example, someone might say, “I often contemplate the meaning of existence.”
In a discussion about the purpose of life, one might ask, “What is the ultimate goal of our existence?”
A person reflecting on their own life might say, “I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs, but I’m grateful for my existence.”

19. Essence

This word refers to the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something that makes it what it is.

For instance, someone might say, “Love is the essence of life.”
In a discussion about a person’s character, one might say, “Her kindness is the essence of who she is.”
A person describing a piece of art might comment, “The artist captured the essence of beauty in this painting.”

20. Subsistence

This term refers to the ability to survive or sustain oneself, often at a basic or minimal level.

For example, someone might say, “Many people in poverty struggle to find subsistence.”
In a discussion about basic human needs, one might mention, “Access to food, water, and shelter is essential for subsistence.”
A person describing a difficult situation might say, “During the war, people were reduced to subsistence living.”

21. Coexistence

Refers to the state of living or existing together in harmony or peace. It emphasizes the idea of different individuals or groups coexisting despite their differences.

For example, a person might say, “In this diverse neighborhood, people of different backgrounds coexist and celebrate their cultures.”
In a discussion about multiculturalism, someone might argue, “Coexistence is essential for a thriving and tolerant society.”
A person reflecting on their relationships might say, “Learning to coexist with my roommate has taught me valuable lessons about compromise and understanding.”

22. Survival

Refers to the act of staying alive or enduring in difficult or challenging circumstances. It emphasizes the idea of overcoming obstacles and persevering.

For instance, a person might say, “In the wilderness, survival depends on your ability to find food and shelter.”
A character in a post-apocalyptic movie might say, “In this world, it’s all about survival. Trust no one.”
When discussing a tough situation, someone might say, “We need to come up with a plan for survival.”

23. Exist

Refers to the state of being or to the act of living or existing. It emphasizes the idea of simply being alive or present.

For example, a person might say, “I exist in this world, and my voice deserves to be heard.”
When reflecting on their purpose, someone might say, “I want to do more than just exist; I want to make a meaningful impact.”
In a philosophical discussion, someone might ponder, “What does it truly mean to exist?”

24. Breath

Refers to the act of breathing and can be used metaphorically to represent life or vitality. It emphasizes the idea of the breath as a symbol of existence.

For instance, a person might say, “Take a deep breath and appreciate the beauty of life.”
When feeling overwhelmed, someone might say, “I just need a moment to catch my breath.”
In a poetic context, someone might describe a refreshing experience as “a breath of fresh air.”

25. Life

Refers to the state of being alive or the period of time during which a person or organism is alive. It emphasizes the idea of existence and the experiences associated with being alive.

For example, a person might say, “Life is full of ups and downs, but it’s important to cherish the moments.”
When discussing personal growth, someone might say, “I’ve learned so much from the challenges life has thrown at me.”
In a philosophical conversation, someone might ponder the meaning of life and its purpose.

26. Dwell

To dwell means to live or reside in a particular place.

For example, “I dwell in a small apartment in the city.”
A person might say, “She dwells in her own little world.”
In a conversation about housing, someone might ask, “Where do you dwell?”

27. Thrive

To thrive means to grow or prosper in a healthy and successful way.

For instance, “The business began to thrive after implementing new strategies.”
A person might say, “I thrive in a fast-paced work environment.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might advise, “To thrive, you need to step out of your comfort zone.”

28. Stand

To stand refers to existing or being in a particular state or situation.

For example, “I can’t stand the heat in this room.”
A person might say, “He stands as a symbol of hope.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might ask, “Where do we stand?”

29. Persist

To persist means to continue to exist or endure despite difficulties or opposition.

For instance, “She persisted in her efforts to achieve her goals.”
A person might say, “You have to persist in order to succeed.”
In a discussion about a challenging situation, someone might advise, “Keep going and persist, no matter what.”

30. Endure

To endure means to withstand or survive difficult conditions or situations.

For example, “They endured extreme weather conditions during their camping trip.”
A person might say, “We must endure these tough times and come out stronger.”
In a conversation about a challenging task, someone might ask, “How long can you endure?”

31. Subsist

To exist or continue to live, often with minimal resources or in difficult conditions.

For example, someone might say, “I’m just subsisting on ramen noodles until my next paycheck.”
In a conversation about living off the grid, a person might mention, “They subsist by growing their own food and using solar power.”
A hiker might say, “When I’m on a long trek, I subsist on energy bars and dehydrated meals.”

32. Breathe

To be alive and have the ability to breathe.

For instance, someone might say, “I’m so glad to be alive and breathing after that accident.”
In a discussion about meditation, a person might mention, “Focus on your breath and be present in the moment.”
A yoga instructor might say, “Breathe deeply and let go of any tension in your body.”

33. Reside

To live or have one’s permanent home in a particular place.

For example, someone might say, “I reside in a small town in the countryside.”
In a conversation about travel, a person might mention, “I’ve resided in multiple countries throughout my life.”
A real estate agent might say, “This neighborhood is popular among families who want to reside in a quiet area.”

34. Occupy

To live in or take up space in a particular place.

For instance, someone might say, “The house is currently occupied by a family of four.”
In a discussion about wildlife, a person might mention, “The area is occupied by a variety of bird species.”
A student might say, “I occupy a dorm room on campus during the school year.”

35. Stay

To continue to be in a particular place or condition.

For example, someone might say, “I plan to stay in this city for a few more years.”
In a conversation about relationships, a person might mention, “I can’t stay in a toxic relationship.”
A traveler might say, “I love to stay in unique accommodations like treehouses or yurts.”

36. Be

This word refers to the state or condition of existing or being.

For example, “To be or not to be, that is the question” is a famous quote from Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
In a philosophical discussion, one might ponder, “What does it mean to truly be?”
A person might say, “I just want to be happy and live a fulfilling life.”

37. Last

To continue existing or to remain in existence for a certain period of time.

For instance, “The party lasted all night and into the morning.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “I hope this one lasts.”
A person might comment, “Summer never seems to last long enough.”

38. Remain

To continue to exist or to be left behind after others have gone.

For example, “Please remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.”
In a discussion about a company’s future, one might ask, “Will the current CEO remain in office?”
A person might say, “Despite the challenges, our love for each other remains.”

39. Continue

To go on existing or to keep happening or being done over a period of time.

For instance, “The rain continued throughout the day.”
In a conversation about a project, someone might say, “Let’s continue working on it tomorrow.”
A person might comment, “Despite the setbacks, we must continue moving forward.”

40. Abide

To remain in existence or to continue to be in a particular state or condition.

For example, “We must abide by the rules of the game.”
In a discussion about a decision, one might say, “I will abide by whatever you choose.”
A person might comment, “I am confident that love will abide.”

41. Inhabit

This word refers to the act of living or occupying a place. It implies a sense of permanence or long-term presence in a particular location.

For example, “Humans inhabit the Earth.”
In a discussion about wildlife, one might say, “Various species of animals inhabit the rainforest.”
A person describing a haunted house might say, “Spirits are said to inhabit this old mansion.”

42. Survive

This word means to continue to live or exist, especially in difficult or challenging circumstances.

For instance, “He managed to survive the plane crash.”
In a conversation about extreme weather conditions, someone might say, “Only the strongest plants can survive in this harsh desert.”
A person discussing a serious illness might say, “Her will to survive is what keeps her fighting.”