as a matter of survival

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a matter of survival" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or decisions that are essential for continuing to live or function, often in a challenging or dangerous context. Example: "In the face of climate change, we must adapt our practices as a matter of survival."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Mako sees it as a matter of survival.

The New York Times

Mr. Ernst, 72, favors drilling as a matter of survival.

The New York Times - Science

National security should not be regarded as a political issue but as a matter of survival.

The New York Times

And I have to say, I did it as a matter of survival.

University of California, Berkeley

Israeli ministers and their supporters have justified the bombardment of Lebanon as "a matter of survival".

The Guardian - Opinion

Indeed, boosting it is increasingly seen as a matter of survival.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

While there are an amazing number of feminists in Pakistan and Afghanistan, there are also a far larger number of women who have internalized the values of a shame and honor culture and function as enforcers--as a matter of survival.

Huffington Post

They churn through the water as if it were a matter of survival.

Los Angeles Times

But with the commitment demonstrated by the young delegates attending the Forum in Denmark, it is hoped that protecting the environment will no longer be seen as just an option, but as a vital need and a matter of survival.

Unicef

The same argument could be made for cutting, as possessing a knife is a matter of survival among hunters and reindeer herders.

BMC Psychiatry

The heaviest use is during the winter when staying warm is a matter of survival as temperatures remain well below freezing for weeks at a time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a matter of survival" to highlight the critical need for a particular action or decision, especially when facing significant challenges or threats. This phrase is effective in conveying urgency and importance.

Common error

Avoid using "as a matter of survival" in situations that are merely inconvenient or challenging, but not genuinely threatening. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Reserve it for contexts where the stakes are truly high.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a matter of survival" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the reason or condition under which an action is performed or a decision is made. Ludwig examples show it is often used to justify actions taken in difficult circumstances.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

16%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a matter of survival" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the critical importance of an action or decision. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in contexts such as news and media, academia, and formal business. While it conveys urgency and necessity, overuse in non-critical situations should be avoided. Alternatives include "for survival's sake" and "out of sheer necessity". Remember to use this expression carefully, because while grammatically correct, it can sound overly dramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for survival's sake

Emphasizes the purpose or reason being directly related to survival.

out of sheer necessity

Highlights the unavoidable nature of the action, driven by need.

as an essential measure

Focuses on the action being a necessary step or action.

when life depends on it

Emphasizes a situation where the outcome directly affects life.

to ensure existence

Directly relates the action to maintaining or securing existence.

for self-preservation

Highlights the instinct or action to protect oneself.

as a critical imperative

Stresses the urgency and importance of the action.

from a life-or-death perspective

Framing the decision from the viewpoint of a situation where there's a risk of losing life.

when the stakes are highest

Focuses on the high risks involved.

as an ultimate recourse

Highlights the phrase as the option left when all others have failed.

FAQs

How can I use "as a matter of survival" in a sentence?

You can use "as a matter of survival" to emphasize the necessity of an action or decision. For example, "Conserving water is crucial "as a matter of survival" in arid regions".

What are some alternatives to "as a matter of survival"?

Some alternatives include "for survival's sake", "out of sheer necessity", or "as an essential measure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "as a matter of survival" in formal writing?

Yes, "as a matter of survival" is appropriate for formal writing when used accurately to describe a situation where actions are critical for continued existence or function. However, ensure the context genuinely warrants such strong emphasis.

What's the difference between "as a matter of survival" and "important"?

"Important" indicates something of value or significance, while "as a matter of survival" signifies that something is essential for continued existence or operation. The latter carries a much stronger sense of urgency and necessity.