Translation guide
The English verb 'to exist' is used to talk about whether something is in the world or in a particular place. In Japanese, the most natural way to express this depends on whether the subject is animate (people, animals) or inanimate (objects, concepts). There is no single verb that covers all uses of 'to exist'.
To say that something non-living exists, such as an object, a place, a problem, or an abstract concept.
The most common verb for inanimate existence. Used for objects, places, events, abstract things, etc.
There is a book on the desk.
問題がある。
There is a problem.
A more formal or philosophical term for existence. Often used in written or academic contexts.
神は存在するのか。
Does God exist?
To say that a person, animal, or other living thing exists or is present.
The most common verb for animate existence. Used for people, animals, and sometimes sentient beings like robots or ghosts in casual contexts.
Can also be used for animate beings in formal or philosophical statements.
宇宙人は存在するのだろうか。
I wonder if aliens exist.
To say where something non-living is located.
To say where a person or animal is.
To say that a situation, state, or condition exists.
To express existence in a formal, written, or philosophical manner.
The standard formal equivalent. Used in academic, technical, and philosophical contexts.
この問題は昔から存在していた。
This problem has existed since long ago.
Emphasizes actual, physical existence as opposed to imaginary or fictional. Often used in debates about reality.
幽霊は実在すると思いますか。
Do you think ghosts actually exist?
Use ある for inanimate things (objects, concepts, plants in some contexts) and いる for animate things (people, animals). Some borderline cases (robots, ghosts, dolls) can take either depending on perceived animacy.
ロボットがいる／ある。
There is a robot. (いる if seen as sentient, ある if seen as a machine)
存在する is much more formal and less common in everyday speech than 'exist' is in English. In most daily situations, ある or いる is more natural.