Subsists

To remain alive; to continue in existence; to maintain life. This implies the securing of necessities, often with difficulty or in a basic state. It can apply to individuals, communities, or abstract concepts like traditions. The degree of survival can vary; it might imply a simple existence with minimal resources or a more complex endurance in the face of challenges. It emphasizes a struggle or challenge, not merely existing, suggesting a continuation despite adverse conditions. The focus is on the effort required for survival or the maintenance of something.

Subsists meaning with examples

• The family, displaced by the earthquake, managed to subsist on meager rations provided by aid organizations. Their daily existence revolved around securing clean water and finding temporary shelter, a constant struggle for survival in a devastated landscape. Their perseverance was a testament to human resilience against overwhelming odds, reminding all of them the value of what they had.
• For months, the rebels subsisted in the harsh mountain environment, relying on guerilla tactics and foraging for sustenance. They faced constant threats from the enemy, and the scarcity of supplies made their situation precarious. Their commitment to their cause, and their capacity for enduring hardships, kept them going and was admirable, even when the weather was bad.
• In the remote regions, traditional farming practices still subsist despite the introduction of modern agricultural techniques. These methods are passed down through generations and are vital for their identity and cultural continuity. While facing the challenges of change, the community worked tirelessly, even when some traditions were questioned or even lost in the face of the challenges.
• The business managed to subsist during the economic recession by adapting its strategy and cutting costs. They found it very difficult to grow the sales, and only by adapting the offer were they able to succeed. They did everything in their powers to stay a float and it worked. Their focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction kept them in business.