existing to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "existing to be" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in a philosophical or abstract context, but clarity is essential for effective communication. Example: "In a world where everything seems to have a purpose, I often wonder if we are merely existing to be."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Indeed, when the BBC covered Mantelgate (Mantelpiece?) it included lingering shots of the duchess's fair form while quoting in horror from Mantel's speech about the royal women existing to be admired.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

So, hylomorphic change requires at least the following two components: (i) something pre-existing to be the patient of the change, and (ii) that thing's being categorially suited to be changed in the way specified.

SEP

That means commuters will have to wait for existing projects to be completed.

The New York Times

But he quickly found the existing scholarship to be full of holes and half-answered questions.

The New Yorker

It invented a digital remastering procedure that enabled existing films to be enlarged frame by frame.

The Guardian - Film

Analysts have said they expect about $20 billion in existing debt to be offered.

The New York Times

In selected areas, we merely seek the existing law to be enforced.

The New York Times

Better air-traffic management will allow existing runways to be used more intensively.

The Economist

he 1975 referendum called only for an existing decision to be endorsed.

Independent

We look forward to seeing what you're working on and we hope to see you in Vegas!

TechCrunch

Both call for the existing terminal to be razed.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "existing to be", ensure the context clearly conveys a philosophical or abstract concept. The phrase suggests purpose, so ensure this is evident.

Common error

Avoid using "existing to be" in sentences where simpler phrases like "is" or "are" would suffice. For example, instead of "The purpose of the tool is existing to be helpful", say "The purpose of the tool is to be helpful".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "existing to be" functions as an infinitive phrase, often expressing purpose or reason. It adds an element of intentionality to the concept of existence. Ludwig AI notes that the phrase is not standard English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "existing to be" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used in philosophical contexts to express a sense of inherent purpose. While not considered standard English, according to Ludwig AI, it appears across various domains, including News & Media and Science. Alternatives such as "being in order to" or "existing in order to" can offer greater clarity depending on the specific context. When using this phrase, ensure that the sentence clearly conveys the intended abstract or philosophical meaning. Overuse in simpler contexts should be avoided to prevent wordiness. Overall, while grammatically acceptable, careful consideration should be given to its usage to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

existing in order to

Similar to the original but replaces "to be" with "in order to".

living to exist

Reverses the structure to emphasize living as a means to existence.

being in order to

Emphasizes purpose or reason for being, rather than the act of existing itself.

being in order that

Emphasizes the purpose of existence with a more formal tone.

being for the purpose of

Highlights the intentionality behind existence.

serve to be

Highlights the function or service provided by existing.

being with the aim of

Focuses on the goal or objective of existence.

be present so as to

Focuses on the intentional presence leading to a specific result.

present to become

Implies a state of presence transitioning into a state of becoming.

being to transform

Emphasizes existence leading to transformation.

FAQs

How can I use "existing to be" in a sentence?

The phrase "existing to be" is best used in philosophical or abstract contexts where you want to emphasize the purpose or reason for existence. For example, "The primary reason for its existing to be is to maintain balance."

What are some alternatives to "existing to be"?

Alternatives include "being in order to", "being for the purpose of", or "existing in order to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "existing to be" grammatically correct?

While not incorrect, "existing to be" is an unusual phrase. Ludwig AI suggests that it is not standard English. Consider rephrasing for clarity in most contexts.

What's the difference between "existing to be" and "existing in order to"?

"Existing to be" implies a more inherent purpose, while "existing in order to" suggests a more deliberate or planned objective. The difference is subtle, but context matters.