# existing

/ɪɡˈzɪstɪŋ/ (US) · /ɛɡzˈɪstɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/existing
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. current or present

adjective · CEFR B1

describes something that is real or present right now.

For teachers: referring to something that currently exists or is in operation at the present time. Usually placed before the noun.

- The existing rules make it very difficult for new businesses to start.
- Under the existing legislation, the company is not required to disclose its carbon emissions, though new laws may soon change that.

### 2. living or being

verb · CEFR B2

the -ing form of the verb 'exist', meaning to be real or to stay alive.

For teachers: the present participle of 'exist', used to describe the state of being real, present, or alive.

- They are existing on very little money while they look for work.
- The species is barely existing in the wild due to the rapid destruction of its natural forest habitat.

## Examples

- The existing rules are very strict.
- The company plans to expand its existing office rather than moving to a new building.
- Under the existing framework, local authorities lack the legal power to intervene in private property disputes without a court order.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.