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Existenz
/ɛksɪˈtɛnts/
existence
Die Existenz eines Menschen ist kostbar.
A person's existence is precious.
general
The state of living or having objective reality; being or existence.
Die Existenz von Tieren und Pflanzen ist wichtig für das Ökosystem.
The existence of animals and plants is important for the ecosystem.
In philosophical contexts, 'Existenz' can refer to the nature of being and consciousness.
informal
A person's livelihood or means of survival, especially in economic terms.
Die Existenz eines kleinen Unternehmens ist oft unsicher.
The existence of a small business is often uncertain.
In this sense, 'Existenz' refers to financial stability or economic survival.
Collocations
Existenzgründungstarting a businessExistenzminimumsubsistence levelExistenzbedrohungthreat to existence
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Philosophical vs. Economic Use
'Existenz' can mean both 'existence' in a philosophical sense and 'livelihood' in an economic sense. Context is key.
Gold Rule
Capitalization
In German, 'Existenz' is always capitalized as it is a noun.
Word Origin
From Latin 'existentia', meaning 'existence' or 'being'.
Usage Notes
'Existenz' is a formal term often used in philosophical, economic, or legal contexts. In everyday speech, 'Leben' or 'Dasein' might be more common.
Word Breakdown
ex-
out of
prefix-istenz
state of being
suffixDeutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch