it lives on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it lives on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something continues to exist, endure, or have an impact over time, often after a significant event or change. Example: "Though the original building was demolished, its legacy lives on in the hearts of the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Decades later, it lives on as one of the most iconic images of the century.

The Guardian

It lives on, in a way.

The Washington Post

It lives on, mutates, makes people sick.

The New York Times

We might not fully own their emotional gravity but it lives on inside us.

Independent

But it lives on, zombie like, with government officials, news reports and citizens circulating these numbers.

The Washington Post

It lives on only as an obscure encyclopedia entry.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Bojangles" one night and sang it, live, on air.

The Washington Post

Make that one idea your life – think of it, dream of it, live on that idea.

Wikipedia

It lived on the soft sediment and collected food with its tentacles.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Watch it live on The Washington Post and Univision.

The Washington Post

But in the digital age, it lived on.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it lives on" to emphasize the lasting impact or legacy of something, even if its original form has changed or disappeared. For example, "Though the artist is gone, their art lives on."

Common error

Ensure the pronoun "it" has a clear and specific antecedent. Vague references can confuse the reader. For example, instead of "The policy failed, but it lives on", specify: "The policy failed, but its effects live on."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it lives on" functions as a declarative statement indicating the continuation or persistence of something. This can refer to a physical object, an idea, a tradition, or an influence, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English to express that something continues to exist, endure, or have an impact over time.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it lives on" is a versatile expression used to convey the continuation, persistence, or lasting impact of something, whether tangible or intangible. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and wiki sources, the phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. When using "it lives on", ensure that the referent of "it" is clear and that the phrase accurately reflects the enduring quality you wish to emphasize. Consider alternatives like "it endures" or "it persists" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it endures

Focuses on the persistence of something over time.

it persists

Emphasizes the continuous existence despite challenges.

it carries on

Highlights the continuation of an activity or state.

it survives

Stresses the ability to remain alive or exist after a dangerous event.

it remains

Simply states that something continues to be in a particular state or place.

it continues to exist

A more explicit way of expressing ongoing existence.

it is perpetuated

Indicates that something is being kept alive or maintained, often intentionally.

it is sustained

Highlights the support or maintenance needed for something to continue.

it is immortalized

Suggests that something is made to last forever, often through art or memory.

it is remembered

Focuses on the continuation of something in people's memories.

FAQs

How can I use "it lives on" in a sentence?

Use "it lives on" to express the continuation or lasting impact of something, even after its physical existence has ceased. For instance, "The tradition lives on through generations".

What are some alternatives to "it lives on"?

You can use alternatives like "it endures", "it persists", or "it remains" to convey a similar meaning, depending on the specific context.

Is "it lives on" formal or informal?

"It lives on" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the surrounding language will influence the overall tone.

What's the difference between "it lives on" and "it survives"?

"It lives on" implies a continuation of influence or existence, while "it survives" suggests overcoming a threat or challenge to continue existing. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize endurance or resilience.