Subsist

Pronunciation: /səbˈsɪst/

Definitions of subsist

verb to exist or continue to exist, especially in difficult circumstances

Example Sentences

A1 Many animals subsist on a diet of grass.

A2 In some parts of the world, people still subsist by hunting and gathering.

B1 The company was barely able to subsist during the economic downturn.

B2 She subsisted on a meager income while she pursued her passion for art.

C1 Despite the challenges, the small village managed to subsist and thrive.

C2 The artist's work was so popular that he was able to subsist solely on his art sales.

Examples of subsist in a Sentence

formal Many people in developing countries struggle to subsist on a daily basis.

informal It's tough trying to subsist on such a low income.

slang I don't know how he manages to subsist with that job.

figurative Her passion for music is what helps her subsist through difficult times.

Grammatical Forms of subsist

• past tense: subsisted
• plural: subsist
• comparative: more subsistent
• superlative: most subsistent
• present tense: subsist
• future tense: will subsist
• perfect tense: have subsisted
• continuous tense: is subsisting
• singular: subsists
• positive degree: subsist
• infinitive: to subsist
• gerund: subsisting
• participle: subsisting

Origin and Evolution of subsist

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'subsist' originated from the Latin word 'subsistere', which is a combination of 'sub' (under) and 'sistere' (to stand).

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the 13th century, 'subsist' meant to exist or continue in existence. Over time, the word has evolved to also mean to maintain oneself at a minimal level or to survive on the bare minimum.