Translation guide
The English word "existing" describes something that is currently present, in use, or alive. This guide covers how to express this concept naturally in Japanese, depending on whether you are talking about objects, systems, living things, or abstract states.
To say that something physical or institutional is currently in existence or operation.
The most common and neutral way to say 'existing' for objects, systems, facilities, rules, etc. It directly modifies a noun.
既存のシステムに問題がある。
There is a problem with the existing system.
We will renovate the existing building.
Used specifically for currently effective rules, laws, systems, or procedures. Emphasizes that something is currently in force.
現行の法律ではそれが禁止されている。
It is prohibited under the existing law.
Means 'current' or 'present'. Can be used for 'existing' when emphasizing the present state, but is more general.
現在の設備では不十分だ。
The existing equipment is insufficient.
A more colloquial phrase meaning 'already existing'. Used in casual conversation.
すでにあるデータを使おう。
Let's use the existing data.
To say that a person, animal, or abstract thing (like a tradition) exists now.
Used for things that still exist, especially when they are rare or have survived from the past. Often used for historical buildings, species, documents, etc.
現存する最古の写本は12世紀のものだ。
The oldest existing manuscript is from the 12th century.
この種は現存する数が少ない。
There are only a few existing individuals of this species.
Specifically means 'to be alive' or 'to survive'. Used for living things.
生存する種はわずかだ。
Only a few species are existing (alive).
Means 'surviving' or 'remaining alive'. More colloquial than 生存する.
生き残っている伝統は少ない。
Few traditions are still existing.
To contrast something that already exists with something new, planned, or hypothetical.
Again, the most versatile word for this contrast. Works for customers, infrastructure, data, etc.
新規顧客だけでなく、既存の顧客も大切だ。
Not only new customers, but existing customers are also important.
A very common casual phrase meaning 'existing now'. Often used in contrast with something new.
今ある問題を先に解決しよう。
Let's solve the existing problems first.
既存 (きぞん) is the general word for 'existing' in the sense of 'already in place' (systems, rules, objects). 現存 (げんそん) emphasizes 'still in existence' and is often used for things that have survived from the past (historical artifacts, species).
存在する (そんざいする) means 'to exist' in a philosophical or locational sense. Using it to translate 'existing' as a modifier (e.g., 'existing customers') sounds unnatural. Use 既存の or 今ある instead.