simply existing

USAGE SUMMARY

"simply existing" is a correct phrase in written English.
It is a way of expressing a feeling of being content or satisfied with your life. For example, "I'm content with simply existing and taking pleasure in the small things in life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

That "the games and amusements of mankind" only exist to shield me from the torture of simply existing in our late capitalist hellscape.

Vice

'People of my age are no longer living, they are simply existing,' she said.

The Guardian

I'm giving it 5 stars out of the gate for simply existing!" she added.

Independent

The report examines how Connecticut's homeless residents face the threat of criminal sanctions for simply existing.

Yale University

Simply existing on either app store does not come with significant costs for the companies.

The Washington Post

Now it turns out that by simply existing I'm managing to ruin someone else's life (89th over).

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Or simply just existing, in all their glory.

HuffPost

Sometimestishe Sabotage 'someland' witeaching'Horeland' Graffiti.

Vice

But simply improving existing building codes would have a bigger impact than any new eco-city.

Yale University

I think that's a common misconception, that we are just simply aggregating existing articles.

Huffington Post

But they create anxiety and instil obedience simply by existing.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simply existing" to convey a sense of basic being, often when contrasting it with thriving or actively participating in something. It's effective in highlighting a fundamental state of existence.

Common error

Avoid using "simply existing" when describing situations that demand action, growth, or significant engagement. It can undermine the importance of active roles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply existing" functions as an adverbial modifier followed by a gerund. It modifies the action of existing, emphasizing the manner in which it occurs—without complexity or added purpose. As Ludwig AI shows, it appears in varied contexts to describe a fundamental state of being.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

15%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "simply existing" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a basic state of being without active participation or thriving. As verified by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, including news, academia, and general discussions. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's crucial to consider the specific context to ensure appropriate usage. Alternatives include "merely being" or "just living", depending on the intended nuance. Remember to avoid using it in situations that demand active engagement to maintain clarity and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely being

Emphasizes the basic state of existence without additional actions or complexities. Changes the adverb to convey a slightly more minimalist view.

just living

Highlights the act of living in a straightforward, uncomplicated manner. Uses a different verb form to shift the focus.

plainly surviving

Focuses on the aspect of survival, suggesting a basic level of coping. Adds a connotation of enduring through challenges.

only subsisting

Implies a minimal level of sustenance, often in difficult conditions. Introduces a sense of barely getting by.

merely subsisting

Emphasizes a basic level of existence, just enough to survive. Combines the emphasis of “merely” with the connotation of subsisting.

purely dwelling

Focuses on residing or inhabiting a space without significant interaction. Conveys a sense of quiet presence.

passively existing

Highlights a lack of active engagement or participation in life. Adds a sense of inactivity or indifference.

barely functioning

Indicates a state of operating at a minimal level, often due to hardship. Introduces a sense of struggle and reduced capacity.

quietly abiding

Suggests a peaceful and unobtrusive presence, often in harmony with the environment. Conveys a sense of calm acceptance.

inactively being

Highlights the absence of action or initiative, suggesting a state of rest or stagnation. Adds a stronger emphasis on lack of activity.

FAQs

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

You can use "simply existing" to describe a state of being where someone or something is merely present without actively participating or thriving. For example, "For some, "simply existing" is enough, while others seek more."

What does it mean to "simply exist"?

To "simply exist" means to be alive or present in a basic state, without necessarily engaging in significant activities or pursuing specific goals. It often implies a passive or minimal level of engagement.

What are some alternatives to "simply existing"?

Some alternatives to "simply existing" include phrases like "merely being", "just living", or "plainly surviving", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to thrive or to "simply exist"?

Whether thriving is better than "simply existing" depends on individual values and circumstances. Thriving implies active growth and fulfillment, while "simply existing" suggests a more basic, perhaps less demanding, state of being. Neither is inherently superior.