1.
coexistence, living together
Existing side by side, especially in cases where the two things might otherwise be in conflict. Used for people, cultures, species, and abstract concepts like old and new.
自然との共存を目指す。
Aim for coexistence with nature.
異なる文化が共存するまちだ。
It's a town where different cultures coexist.
伝統と革新が共存する社会のあり方を考える。
Think about the way a society should be where tradition and innovation coexist.
Often used in discussions of multiculturalism, environmental sustainability, and balancing opposing forces. Also read as きょうそん, though きょうぞん is more common.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 共存共栄 (coexistence and co-prosperity)
- 平和共存 (peaceful coexistence)
- 共存する (to coexist)
- ～との共存 (coexistence with ~)
DISTINCTIONS:
- 共存: coexistence (existing together, often despite differences)
- 共生: symbiosis, living together (often implies mutual benefit or interdependence)