IELTS Vocabulary: Understanding and Using the Word ‘Survive’
Learn the meaning, usage, and importance of the word ‘survive’ for your IELTS exam. This video covers the word type, definition, etymology, synonyms, antonyms, example sentences, and common errors to avoid when using ‘survive’ in your IELTS speaking and writing tasks.
Imagine being stranded on a deserted island. What would you do to survive? Today, we’re going to learn about the word survive, an essential vocabulary item for your IELTS preparation.
Word type: Survive is a verb. It’s an action word that describes continuing to live or exist.
Meaning: To survive means to stay alive, especially in difficult situations or after experiencing something dangerous.
Word history: The word survive comes from Latin. It combines sur, meaning over or beyond, and vivere, which means to live.
So, it literally means to live beyond or to continue living.
Synonyms: Some words that mean almost the same as survive are endure, live through, and pull through.
Antonyms: Words that mean the opposite of survive are die, perish, and succumb.
Examples use in sentences:
Here are three sentences using the word survive, which you might find useful in your IELTS exam: Many animals have special features that help them survive in extreme climates.
It’s challenging for small businesses to survive in a competitive market. The hikers had to use all their skills to survive the unexpected snowstorm.
Common errors in use: Some learners confuse survive with live. Remember, survive usually implies overcoming a difficult or dangerous situation, while live is more general and means to be alive.
Understanding and using the word survive correctly can help you express ideas about challenges, endurance, and overcoming obstacles in your IELTS speaking and writing tasks.
Practice using this word in different contexts to become more comfortable with it. Remember, with each new word you learn, you’re more likely to survive and thrive in your IELTS exam.

