存在

cúnzài
verbIntermediate
general

To have objective reality; to be real or actual.

我们需要证明这个理论在现实中存在。

We need to prove that this theory exists in reality.

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This is the most common and basic meaning of '存在'.

general

To be present or available.

在会议上,我们需要存在的证据。

At the meeting, we need evidence that is present.

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This meaning is often used in formal or official contexts.

formal

To be recognized or acknowledged.

他的贡献在历史上存在。

His contributions are recognized in history.

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This meaning is often used in historical or philosophical contexts.

Collocations

存在感presence存在主义existentialism存在问题existence problem

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

存在主义phrase
existentialism
存在感phrase
presence
存在问题phrase
existence problem

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Usage

'存在' is a formal term. In informal contexts, you might use '有' (to have) or '存在着' (to be existing) instead.

Gold Rule

Philosophical Context

In philosophical contexts, '存在' is often used to discuss the nature of reality and being.

📖Word Origin

The word '存在' is composed of '存' (to exist) and '在' (to be present). It is a compound word that has been used in Chinese for centuries to describe the state of being real or actual.

📝Usage Notes

The word '存在' is a formal and neutral term that can be used in both written and spoken contexts. It is often used in philosophical, scientific, and legal contexts to describe the state of being real or actual.

Word Breakdown

to exist
root
+
to be present
root
汉英词典