exist on that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exist on that" is not correct in standard written English.
It is unclear and lacks proper context, making it difficult to determine its intended meaning. Example: "The issues that exist on that topic need further discussion."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

There is probably no risk for women in child-bearing age without contraception, women during pregnancy and lactation to be expected, if both electrodes are fixed at the skull, however no data exist on that.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Things that exist on that plane are only revealed one step at a time.

Huffington Post

What kinds of limits and safeguards exist on that data collection and data retention?

The Guardian - Tech

Among other things, he suggested that the Iraqi Governing Council, the American-appointed advisory body seen by United States officials as the most viable nucleus of a transitional government after June 30, should "cease to exist" on that date.

The New York Times

That kind of specialization doesn't exist on that scale".

Forbes

"He would not be able to exist on that plateau of mediocrity.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

But in its court papers, the Postal Service notes that the new station would be smaller than an older one that existed on that site, and that the 1992 study took into account future development.

The New York Times

There was a community that existed on that campus until 1994".

The New York Times

A chaotic mix of plant species, many of which have never existed on that land, are battling for dominance.

The New York Times - Magazine

Before doing this, I always sort of existed on that online space because I thought that was cool, and now I exist there for work.

The Guardian - Books

He showed people a home page and asked them to find a specific piece of information that he knew existed on that Web site.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When possible, replace "exist on that" with clearer alternatives like "exist in that context" or "exist regarding that" to improve readability and grammatical correctness. Ensure the preposition accurately reflects the intended relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "exist on that" when a different preposition would provide greater clarity. Using "exist in that" or "exist regarding that" often results in a more grammatically sound and understandable sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exist on that" functions as a prepositional phrase, attempting to specify a location, condition, or basis for existence. However, its usage is often unclear, and Ludwig indicates that it is not correct in standard written English. The phrase's intended meaning can vary depending on context.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exist on that" attempts to link existence to a specific condition or basis. However, Ludwig identifies this phrase as not grammatically correct in standard written English. Because of its ambiguity, it's advisable to use clearer alternatives like "exist in that context" or "depend on that". While it appears across various source types, its frequency is uncommon, and clarity is paramount for effective communication. Always aim for precise prepositional usage to avoid misinterpretations. The common alternative include phrases like "are based on that" or "function on that".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exist in that

Replaces 'on' with 'in' to indicate existence within a particular state or condition, focusing on the environment of existence.

depend on that

Shifts the meaning to indicate reliance or dependence on a specific factor or condition.

rely on that

Similar to 'depend on that', emphasizing the act of trusting or depending on something for support or a specific outcome.

hinge on that

Indicates that something is contingent or pivotal, turning on a particular point or condition.

are based on that

Focuses on the foundation or basis of something, highlighting that it originates or is constructed upon a certain element.

are predicated on that

Similar to 'are based on that' but more formal, suggesting a logical or necessary condition.

operate on that

Implies that something functions or performs based on a specific principle or factor.

function on that

Similar to 'operate on that', indicating how something works or performs under certain conditions.

live by that

Suggests adhering to a principle or code, indicating a guiding philosophy or set of beliefs.

endure by that

Emphasizes survival or continuation under specific circumstances, indicating reliance for maintaining existence.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "exist on that" to improve clarity?

Consider using alternatives like "exist in that" or "exist regarding that" depending on the specific context you're trying to convey.

Is "exist on that" grammatically correct in formal writing?

Generally, "exist on that" is not considered grammatically strong in formal writing. Opt for more precise alternatives such as "exist in that context" or "are based on that" for improved clarity and correctness.

What's the difference between "exist on that" and "depend on that"?

"Exist on that" attempts to describe where something is found, while "depend on that" indicates reliance or contingency. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the relationship you intend to describe.

When is it appropriate to use "exist on that"?

While not generally recommended due to potential ambiguity, "exist on that" might be used informally. However, in most contexts, it's better to choose a more precise and grammatically sound alternative such as "operate on that" or "are predicated on that".