Existence vs Existance: Correct Spelling, Meaning, and Examples

When it comes to English spelling, some words are often confused because they look so similar, but their meanings are different. One of the most common pairs of these words is “existence” vs. “existance.” If you’ve ever wondered which one to use, you’re not alone. Many writers, especially those new to English or non-native speakers, often mix up these words.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between “existence” and “existance” and help you avoid the confusion. By the end, you’ll be able to choose the correct word effortlessly in any situation. We’ll also provide a quick guide on how to choose the right word depending on your audience, whether you’re writing professionally, informally, or for academic purposes.

Quick Answer: Which Spelling Is Correct—Existence or Existance?

• Existence: The state of being, or the fact that something is real and present.
  • Example: “The existence of the universe is a mystery.”
• Existance: A common misspelling of “existence.”
  • Example: “Existance doesn’t exist in the dictionary.”

Decision Rule:

• Use existence. “Existance” is incorrect.

The Origin of Existence and Existance

Both “existence” and “existance” stem from the verb “exist,” which means “to be real or present.” The word “existence” comes from the Latin word existentia, meaning “the state of being.” It entered English during the late Middle Ages and became the standard way of referring to the state of being or reality.

On the other hand, “existance” is simply a misspelling of “existence” that often occurs in casual writing, especially among learners or those unfamiliar with the exact spelling. It does not have a separate origin or any formal use in the English language.

Reason for Confusion Today

The confusion between “existence” and “existance” happens primarily due to their similar pronunciation. Since both words sound almost the same when spoken aloud, it’s easy for writers to make a typographical error, especially when typing quickly. Another factor is that many people may encounter “existance” in casual internet posts, social media, or even in some online documents, reinforcing the mistake.

Despite its common appearance, “existance” is not recognized by formal dictionaries, and it’s considered an incorrect form. The correct version is always existence.

British English vs American English Spelling

Good news! There is no difference in spelling between “existence” and “existance” in British and American English. Both varieties of English use existence as the correct spelling.

However, it’s always useful to remember that some words in English have different spellings in British and American English, such as:

• Colour (British) vs. Color (American)
• Organise (British) vs. Organize (American)

For “existence,” there is no variation in either form. Just stick with the standard spelling of existence.

How to Choose the Right Word Fast

Audience-Based Guidance:

• US Writers: Always use existence. “Existance” is considered a misspelling.
• UK / Commonwealth Writers: The same applies. Existence is the only correct spelling.
• Global or Professional Writing: Whether you’re writing in a professional setting, an academic context, or in global communication, always use existence. Avoid “existance” entirely, as it is incorrect.

Summary:

• Existence is always the correct spelling.
• Avoid using “existance” because it’s an incorrect variant.

Common Mistakes with Existence

Writers frequently confuse “existence” with “existance” due to a simple typo. Here are some common mistakes and the corrected forms:

❌ Incorrect → ✅ Correct Format:

• “The existance of life on Mars is still unproven.” → “The existence of life on Mars is still unproven.”
• “He questioned the existance of ghosts.” → “He questioned the existence of ghosts.”

These types of errors usually happen in informal writing or when someone is typing quickly. However, it’s always best to double-check and ensure you’re using the correct form, especially in professional or academic writing.

Existence in Everyday Examples

Here are some more natural examples of how existence is used in everyday situations:

1. Emails:

• Correct: “I wanted to check if the meeting room is available for our team this afternoon.”
• Incorrect: “Please confirm the existence of the meeting room by this afternoon.”

2. News:

• Correct: “Scientists have confirmed that life exists in extreme environments.”
• Incorrect: “The existence of life in extreme environments has been confirmed.”

3. Social Media:

• Correct: “This new app feature is real, and it’s already available to users!”
• Incorrect: “Check out the existence of this new feature in the app update!”

4. Formal Writing:

• Correct: “The research paper discusses the ongoing debate over whether extraterrestrial life exists.”
• Incorrect: “The existence of extraterrestrial life is a subject of ongoing debate.”

These examples feel more natural and closer to what people would actually say or write in daily communication.

Existence – Usage Patterns & Search Interest

“Existence” is commonly searched by students, ESL learners, and writers. It’s especially a frequent query in academic settings or during exam preparation. Writers and learners often confuse “existence” with “existance” when they are still becoming familiar with spelling rules in English.

One real-world scenario where misuse can cause confusion is in academic essays, where spelling errors are closely scrutinized. If a writer uses “existance” in a thesis or paper, it could be flagged as a mistake, leading to potential deductions in grading or credibility.

Comparison Table: Existence vs Existance

Semantic FAQs (People Also Ask)

1. Is “existence” the same as “existance”?
   • No, “existence” is correct, and “existance” is a common misspelling.
2. Which one is correct in formal writing?
   • Always use existence in formal writing. “Existance” is incorrect.
3. Can they be used interchangeably?
   • No, existence is the only correct spelling. “Existance” is a mistake.
4. Why do people confuse them?
   • People confuse them because they sound the same and have similar spellings.
5. Can grammar tools catch this mistake?
   • Yes, most grammar tools will flag “existance” as an error and suggest “existence” as the correct form.
6. Is there a British vs. American difference?
   • No, both British and American English use existence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the key difference between existence and existance is simple: existence is the correct spelling, and existance is a misspelling. Writers often confuse the two, especially when typing quickly, but with practice, this mistake can easily be avoided. Remember, always choose existence in any form of writing—whether casual, academic, or professional.

One rule to remember: If in doubt, use “existence”—there’s no such word as “existance.”

J.K. Rowling

J.K. Rowling is a British author whose career centers on long-form narrative writing, editorial discipline, and sustained engagement with language at scale. Her professional background reflects years of structured research, drafting, and revision across fiction and nonfiction formats, with close attention to word choice, internal consistency, and reader interpretation.

Although best known for storytelling, Rowling’s published work shows a methodical approach to semantics—how individual words carry tone, implication, and contextual meaning. This sensitivity to language aligns naturally with research-based analysis of word differences, usage boundaries, and precision in expression. Her writing practice relies on clarity over ornament, favoring exact terms where meaning matters.

For readers interested in word comparison and meaning accuracy, her body of work offers a practical example of how careful language decisions shape understanding. The value lies not in authority claims, but in observable craft: disciplined editing, consistent terminology, and respect for reader comprehension. This emphasis supports trust, accuracy, and editorial responsibility—core expectations for informational content.