act of existing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "act of existing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the state or process of being alive or present in a particular context. Example: "The act of existing in a world filled with challenges can be both daunting and empowering."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Coleridge asks his reader if he has ever considered the mere act of existing.

The New Yorker

The mere act of existing as a woman in public makes us targets.

The Guardian

For him, God is pure being, or the act of existing.

Britannica

The music was secondary to the act of existing there at that time and in that place.

The Guardian - Music

Creatures participate in being according to their essence; for example, human beings participate in being, or the act of existing, to the extent that their humanity, or essence, permits.

Britannica

Also distinctive in Maritain's account of metaphysics is the emphasis on "the act of existing".

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

During its first full year of operation, the Neuroscience Blueprint has acted to expand a number of existing resources and has established an infrastructure for the efficient development and implementation of new initiatives.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Even if spontaneous mutation rates are increased in the DH lines, there are on average no more than two mutations per DH genome, which is by far not large enough to interfere with the accurate identification of GCs, which act on existing variation only.

eLife

According to traditional theism, the totality of non-divine entities is a multiplicity in need of grounding in a primordial unifying activity the "pure act" (actus purus) of existing that is God.

SEP

Either way, the role of chromatin accessibility would enable Hox proteins to act as modulators of existing gene regulatory programs which fits with the evolutionary role of Hox genes as modulators of segmental morphology [20].

Plosone

By the very act of interpreting existing laws and declaring something to be within Congress's power (and not the president's), the court affirms that it, not Congress, is the entity capable of making the president listen.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing philosophical or existential themes, use "act of existing" to emphasize the active and dynamic aspects of being, rather than a static state.

Common error

Avoid using "act of existing" in contexts where simpler terms like "living" or "being" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "act of existing" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI suggests that it describes the state or process of being alive or present. For example, "The mere act of existing as a woman in public makes us targets."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "act of existing" is a noun phrase that refers to the state or process of being alive or present. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing philosophical or existential themes. The phrase is relatively common, appearing in various sources such as News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science. While "act of existing" is versatile, it should be used judiciously, avoiding overuse in contexts where simpler terms like "being" or "living" would suffice. Consider alternatives like "state of being" or "process of existence" depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

State of being

Emphasizes the condition or status of existence rather than the process.

Process of existence

Highlights the ongoing nature and unfolding of being.

The fact of being

Focuses on the undeniable reality of existence.

The condition of life

Relates existence specifically to living organisms and their circumstances.

Mode of living

Highlights the manner or way in which someone exists.

Essence of reality

Focuses on the fundamental nature and truth of existence.

Current reality

Highlights the present state of existence or the present moment.

Elemental presence

Emphasizes the basic and fundamental aspect of being present.

Mere existence

Underscores the simple and unadorned nature of being.

Fundamental being

Highlights the basic and essential aspect of existence.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "act of existing" in a sentence?

You can use "act of existing" to discuss the fundamental experience of being alive or present. For instance, "The constant struggle is inherent in the "act of existing" in a competitive world."

What's a simpler way to say "act of existing"?

Depending on the context, you can use simpler alternatives such as "state of being" or "simply existing". Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and formality of your writing.

Is "act of existing" formal or informal?

"Act of existing" leans towards the formal side, best suited for philosophical discussions or academic writing. In casual conversation, consider using more straightforward language such as "being alive".

What's the difference between "act of existing" and "state of being"?

"Act of existing" implies a dynamic, ongoing process, while "state of being" suggests a more static condition. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the active or passive aspects of existence.