in order to exist

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in order to exist" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a purpose or necessity for existence in various contexts, often in philosophical or scientific discussions. Example: "Certain conditions must be met in order to exist in a sustainable environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Since immaterial substances less than God are dependent on the divine causality in order to exist, existing cannot be what they are of their essence.

SEP

The apple I see does not depend on my perceiving it in order to exist: (pace Berkeley and phenomenalists) its existence is independent of my, or for that matter anyone else's, seeing it.

SEP

If (ii) is true, then "there is surely some one power or nature of self-existing that they have in order to exist through themselves" (M 3); in that case, "all things exist more truly through that one thing than through the several things that cannot exist without that one thing" (M 3).

SEP

Conversely, everything that does not exist necessarily and therefore has a possible relation to existence is something that is possible, so that in order to exist it always and necessarily refers to a cause that makes it exist: a cause that justifies the fact that instead of being possible (mumkin) and therefore not already assigned to existence, the thing is qualified as existent.

SEP

It's a strange idea: to resist in order to exist.

The New Yorker

Something that required my fidelity in order to exist.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

He goes on to argue "essence does not need existence [to exist] and [its existence] is not in relation to an existent since [if] essence prior to existing was non-existing (ma‛dūm), then how can something need something else [in order to exist] prior to its existence?" (Ḍarūrat al-taḍād fi'l-'ālam wa'l-jabr wa'l-baqā', 125).

SEP

If we are among the simulated minds, then we exist in order to be stimulated minds: we exist in order for the controllers to run experiments.

The New Yorker

A parental relationship or longstanding live-in relationship had to exist in order to be considered as a stepparent.

BMC Psychiatry

Drums thunder, melodies soar, arrangements surge, choruses exist in order to be bellowed along to en masse.

The Guardian - Music

They existed in order to be in decline: the Fall and the Paradise are about the same thing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in order to exist", ensure the sentence clearly states what actions or conditions are necessary for something's survival or continuation. This phrase is most effective when highlighting a fundamental requirement.

Common error

Avoid using "in order to exist" in simple sentences where 'to exist' alone suffices. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound verbose. Consider streamlining your sentences for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in order to exist" functions as an adverbial phrase of purpose, indicating the reason or condition necessary for something's existence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

39%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in order to exist" serves as a crucial linguistic tool for expressing the necessary conditions for survival or continuation, as highlighted by Ludwig's analysis. Grammatically sound and widely used, it's found across diverse domains such as science, news, and academia. While simple and effective, it's important to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in sentences where 'to exist' would suffice. Remember to ensure that the sentence clearly defines what actions or conditions are essential, solidifying its role as a foundational phrase for articulating prerequisites. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase it's mostly used in formal register, but is adaptable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be able to exist

Focuses on the ability to exist rather than the reason or condition.

for existence to occur

Emphasizes the occurrence of existence, shifting the focus slightly.

to ensure survival

Highlights the aspect of survival as a necessary condition for continuing to exist.

as a prerequisite for being

Presents existence as a state of being with a prerequisite.

to facilitate continued life

Specifically targets continued existence, emphasizing life.

for the sake of remaining

Focuses on the purpose of remaining in existence.

necessary for survival

Emphasizes the necessity of survival, implying existence.

required for its being

Highlights the requirement for something's very being or essence.

to maintain its presence

Shifts the focus to maintaining an existing presence.

to keep on living

Simplifies the concept to the basic act of continuing to live.

FAQs

How can I use "in order to exist" in a sentence?

Use "in order to exist" to explain the reason or condition something needs to survive or continue. For instance, "A business needs to adapt "in order to" remain competitive."

What are some alternatives to "in order to exist"?

Alternatives include "to be able to exist", "for existence to occur", or "to ensure survival", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to use "in order to exist"?

While not always redundant, be mindful of simpler alternatives like "to survive" or "to continue". Use "in order to exist" when emphasizing the necessary steps or conditions for survival are central to your meaning.

What's the difference between "in order to exist" and "in order to live"?

"In order to exist" generally refers to the basic requirements for something to be, while "in order to live" typically relates to the conditions necessary for a fulfilling or sustainable life. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing basic survival or quality of life.