livelihood
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livelihood
The totality of material and immaterial resources that are necessary for the survival and existence of humans, animals, or plants.
Für viele Fischer ist der See die alleinige Lebensgrundlage.
For many fishermen, the lake is their only livelihood.
The word is made up of 'Leben' (life), the linking -s, and 'Grundlage' (basis/foundation). So it literally means the 'basis of life' and describes everything that is necessary for survival.
Der Schutz der natürlichen Lebensgrundlagen ist eine globale Aufgabe.
Protecting the natural bases of life is a global task.
This noun is often used with verbs that express a threat or protection. Typical formulations are 'die Lebensgrundlage entziehen' (to deprive someone of their livelihood), 'die Lebensgrundlage zerstören' (to destroy someone's livelihood), or 'die Lebensgrundlage sichern' (to secure someone's livelihood).
Die Dürre droht, den Bauern die Lebensgrundlage zu entziehen.
The drought threatens to deprive the farmers of their livelihood.
'Lebensgrundlage' is a rather formal word that is often used in political, ecological, or scientific discussions. It is frequently found in news reports and specialist texts.
Die Konferenz diskutierte über den Erhalt der Lebensgrundlagen für zukünftige Generationen.
The conference discussed the preservation of the bases of life for future generations.
existence
Die Existenz and die Lebensgrundlage can both refer to the material basis of life. Lebensgrundlage more concretely describes the resources people live on, while Existenz can also express the securing of a person's situation in life more generally. Lebensgrundlage suits a specific basis, while Existenz is often used for preserving or securing it.
Für viele Familien ist die Landwirtschaft die wichtigste Lebensgrundlage.
For many families, farming is their most important livelihood.
Mit diesem Einkommen kann sie ihre Existenz sichern.
With this income, she can secure her livelihood.
