only existing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only existing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that something is the sole instance or version of something that exists. Example: "The only existing copy of the manuscript was found in a dusty attic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

To be red (or even to be an apple) it must already exist, as only existing things instantiate properties.

SEP

In the meantime we are honoring only existing booking commitments.

The New York Times

In the end, it would help only existing homeowners.

The Guardian - Business

All of the IEA's proposals use only existing technology, rather than relying on potential innovations.

The Guardian

(The only existing Seiran is in the hands of the Smithsonian).

The New York Times - Science

Watch the only existing footage of Mark Twain, shot by Thomas Edison in 1909.

The New Yorker

You see, we are not living in here, we are only existing".

The New Yorker

The protocol is the only existing legally binding treaty, but it expires in 2012.

The Guardian

Some actors are always performing, only existing in reference to other people.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

According to Groucho's letter to Gummo — the only existing account of the dinner — Eliot was gracious and accommodating.

The New Yorker

For example, Bryce Hospital in Tuscaloosa is the only existing psychiatric hospital in the Birmingham area.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only existing" when you want to emphasize that there are no other current examples or instances of something.

Common error

Avoid using "only existing" when the context already implies uniqueness or existence. For instance, saying "the only existing original" is redundant; "the only original" suffices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only existing" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It emphasizes the exclusivity or singularity of the noun it describes. Ludwig shows that it indicates there are no other current examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only existing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that serves to emphasize the uniqueness or singularity of a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While alternatives like "sole existing" or "unique existing" can add variety, "only existing" is widely accepted and understood across diverse contexts. It is crucial to avoid redundancy when using this phrase, ensuring clarity and conciseness in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sole existing

Replaces "only" with "sole" to emphasize uniqueness.

unique existing

Uses "unique" to highlight the singular nature of the item.

currently existing

Adds "currently" to specify existence at the present time.

presently existing

Similar to "currently existing", focusing on the present.

now existing

Emphasizes the current existence of something.

surviving

Implies that the item has persisted while others have not.

remaining

Indicates that the item is one of few left.

in existence

Focuses on the state of existing, with "only" implied.

that exists

A more descriptive way of indicating the item's existence.

extant

A more formal synonym for "existing".

FAQs

How can I use "only existing" in a sentence?

You can use "only existing" to emphasize that something is the sole or current instance, like "This is the only existing copy of the manuscript."

What's a good substitute for "only existing"?

Consider using alternatives such as "sole existing", "unique existing", or "currently existing" to add variety to your writing.

Is it redundant to say "the only existing original"?

Yes, using "only existing" with "original" can be redundant. It's often better to simply say "the only original".

When should I use "only existing" versus "remaining"?

Use "only existing" when you want to emphasize that something is the single instance. Use "remaining" when something is one of several that are left.