just living

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just living" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a state of simply existing or going through life without any specific goals or ambitions. Example: "After a hectic week, I’m taking a break and just living for the moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Just living here.

The New York Times - Magazine

Just living".

The Guardian

We're just living in it.

The New York Times

He's just living it.

The New Yorker

Otherwise you're just living.

The Guardian

Is it just living in moderation?

The New York Times

Yes, I was just living my life.

The New Yorker

I'm just living my life, brother.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

They gotta just live.

The New York Times - Magazine

You just lived there.

The New York Times

"He just lived everything visual".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just living" to convey a sense of contentment with a simple, unhurried life, especially when contrasting it with more ambitious or stressful ways of living.

Common error

Avoid using "just living" as a justification for inaction or lack of ambition, especially in contexts where personal growth or responsibility are expected. Be mindful that it can sometimes imply a lack of direction or purpose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just living" functions primarily as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun or part of a verb phrase to describe a state of existence or a way of life. As confirmed by Ludwig, it expresses a state of simply existing without specific goals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

HuffPost

7%

The New York Times

4%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Vice

1%

Forbes

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "just living" is a commonly used gerund phrase that describes a state of simple existence or a lifestyle without particular ambition. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and most frequently appears in news and media contexts. While it can convey contentment or a focus on the present, it's important to be mindful of potential misinterpretations, such as implying a lack of purpose. Alternatives like "simply existing" or "taking it easy" can offer subtle shifts in meaning, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just being

A shortened, more philosophical take on existing without doing.

simply existing

Focuses on the basic act of being alive without implying active engagement.

merely surviving

Suggests a struggle to stay alive, often in difficult circumstances.

living day by day

Indicates a focus on the present, often due to uncertainty about the future.

being in the present

Focuses on mindfulness and experiencing the current moment fully.

existing in the moment

Highlights experiencing the present without worrying about the future or past.

going with the flow

Suggests adapting to circumstances without resistance or planning.

enjoying life's simple pleasures

Emphasizes finding happiness in basic, everyday experiences.

leading a simple life

Highlights a lifestyle characterized by few possessions and uncomplicated routines.

taking it easy

Implies a relaxed and unhurried approach to life.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone is "just living"?

Saying someone is "just living" typically means they are existing without particular ambition or striving, content with the simple act of being alive. It can also suggest a focus on the present moment.

How can I use "just living" in a sentence?

You might say, "After years of chasing promotions, I decided to slow down and "simply exist", "just living" from day to day."

What's a more formal way to say "just living"?

In a more formal context, consider using phrases like "merely existing" or "subsisting", though these may carry slightly different connotations of hardship or lack of resources.

What are some alternative phrases for "just living" that imply relaxation?

If you want to convey relaxation, try phrases like "taking it easy", "going with the flow", or "enjoying life's simple pleasures".