coexistence
koh-eg-ZISS-tunss
/ˌkəʊ.ɪɡˈzɪs.təns/
The state or condition of living or existing together peacefully at the same time or in the same geographical area despite differences.
Emphasizes tolerance and mutual non-interference between diverse, potentially conflicting groups.
The story behind the word. Combines Latin prefix 'co-' (together) with 'exsistere' (meaning to stand out or exist). It gained prominence during the Cold War to describe foreign policy strategies aimed at preventing nuclear conflict between opposing superpowers.
Word relationships
- symbiosis: 'Symbiosis' implies mutually dependent biological interaction, whereas 'coexistence' simply requires peaceful living together.
- concord: 'Concord' implies active agreement and harmony, while 'coexistence' can exist merely through mutual tolerance.
- conflict: 'Conflict' involves active opposition, hostility, or warfare between groups.
- hostility: 'Hostility' denotes active unfriendliness or antagonism.
Commonly confused with
- cooperation: 'Cooperation' requires groups to work together actively; 'coexistence' simply requires them to exist side by side peacefully.
Word family
- coexist (verb): To exist together at the same time or in the same place.
- coexistent (adjective): Existing at the same time or in the same place.
Collocations
- peaceful coexistence
- promote coexistence
- framework for coexistence
- harmonious coexistence
Idioms & expressions
- live and let live
Example sentences
- "The accord established a legal framework for peaceful coexistence between neighboring ethnic communities." Peace building review
- "Sustainable forestry aims for the coexistence of human economic development and wildlife preservation." Ecological governance
Memory hook
CO (together) + EXISTENCE: Existing side by side in peace. Together we exist without fighting.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'assimilation', which requires groups to blend into a single uniform entity.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'peaceful coexistence' became a major geopolitical doctrine formulated by Soviet foreign policy in the 1950s.
Related words
Explore more words
multicultural, tolerant, symbiotic, concurrent, symbiosis, concurrence
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