existir
/ehk-sees-TEER/
to exist
When something is real or present, we say it exists (existir).
existir(verb)
to exist
?to be real or present
,to be
?to be found or available
to be in existence
?philosophical or general statement
📝 In Action
No creo que los unicornios realmente existan.
A2I don't think unicorns really exist.
¿Existe algún problema con la conexión a internet?
A1Is there a problem with the internet connection?
Este tipo de flor solo existe en las montañas.
A2This type of flower only exists in the mountains.
💡 Grammar Points
Existir vs. Haber (Impersonal)
While 'haber' (in the form 'hay') is often used to say 'there is' or 'there are,' 'existir' is used when you want to emphasize the reality or presence of something, especially in more formal or philosophical contexts. It can be conjugated for plural subjects.
Subjunctive Trigger
When talking about things whose existence you doubt or deny, you must use the special verb form (subjunctive). For example: 'Dudo que exista vida en Marte' (I doubt that life exists on Mars).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Ser and Existir
Mistake: "La vida es en otros planetas."
Correction: La vida existe en otros planetas. ('Ser' describes what something is; 'existir' confirms that it is real and present.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal/Abstract Use
Use 'existir' when discussing abstract concepts like 'peace,' 'justice,' or 'love' to emphasize their reality or lack thereof.
To subsist or get by, like this growing plant, is another way to live (existir).
📝 In Action
Ella solo existe para su trabajo; no tiene vida social.
B1She only lives for her work; she has no social life.
En ese pueblo, la gente existe con muy pocos recursos.
B2In that town, people subsist on very few resources.
Existimos en un mundo lleno de contradicciones.
B1We live in a world full of contradictions.
💡 Grammar Points
Existir vs. Vivir
While both mean 'to live,' 'vivir' usually refers to the act of being alive or residing somewhere. 'Existir' in this sense often carries a deeper, more reflective tone about the quality or purpose of life.
⭐ Usage Tips
Philosophical Weight
If you are discussing profound ideas about life, purpose, or society, 'existir' sounds more thoughtful and serious than 'vivir.'
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: existir
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the special verb form (subjunctive) required when expressing doubt about reality?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'existir' a transitive verb? Can it take a direct object?
No. 'Existir' is an intransitive verb, meaning the action doesn't pass to a direct object. You simply say *what* exists ('El tiempo existe'), you don't 'exist something.'
If 'existir' is a regular verb, why do I see 'exista'?
'Exista' is the conjugation for the special verb form (the subjunctive mood), which is used to talk about wishes, doubts, or emotions. Although the endings change for the subjunctive, the verb stem (exist-) remains completely regular.