nonexistent

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /nɒnɪɡˈzɛstənt/

KK: /nɑnɪgˈzɛstənt/

adjective

Definition

Something that does not exist or is not real.

Example

The idea of a unicorn is nonexistent in reality.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of that new restaurant in town?

I think it's nonexistent — I couldn't find anything about it online.

Yeah, it feels like everyone is talking about it, but I can't find any details.

Maybe it's just a rumor or a place that never actually opened.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

imaginary

fictitious

absent

Antonyms

real

existent

present

Root Explanation

Nonexistent → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "existere" (meaning to exist). The word describes something that does not exist or is not present.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') combined with 'to exist' ('existere') — this helps you remember that 'nonexistent' means something that does not exist.

Visually Confused Words

unexistent

inexistent

coexistent