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.
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.
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.
The existing equipment is insufficient.
A more colloquial phrase meaning 'already existing'. Used in casual conversation.
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.
The oldest existing manuscript is from the 12th century.
There are only a few existing individuals of this species.
Specifically means 'to be alive' or 'to survive'. Used for living things.
Only a few species are existing (alive).
Means 'surviving' or 'remaining alive'. More colloquial than 生存する.
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.
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.
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.