adjective
Already present, available, or in use, rather than new or planned.
The clinic needs repairs to its existing building.
We should improve the existing rules before creating new ones.
American English
How to pronounce existing
adjective · verbB1Very common word
ihgZIHStihng
/ɪgˈzɪs.tɪŋ/
3 syllables · Stress the second syllable.
Form of exist
Existing is often used before a noun to mean already present or in use; in other sentences, it is the -ing form of exist.
Already present, available, or in use, rather than new or planned.
What to listen for
“Existing” can begin with either /ɪ/ or /ɛ/: /ɪgˈzɪstɪŋ/ or /ɛgˈzɪstɪŋ/. Both pronunciations are used in American English.
usual pronunciation/ɪgˈzɪs.tɪŋ/
also heard/ɛgˈzɪs.tɪŋ/
Meanings & examples
gerund / present participle
Being real or present in a particular place or situation.
Scientists are studying the possibility of life existing on other planets.
Existing in a harsh climate is difficult for many species.
gerund / present participle
Living with very little money, food, or comfort.
Existing on one paycheck is difficult for many families.
Existing on very little food can weaken the body.
Useful expressions
to have an official name or status but not be real or active in practice
The company exists in name only.