Vivir vs. residir
The Spanish words 'vivir' and 'residir' both mean 'to live' in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Vivir' is a more commonly used verb that describes living in a more general and casual sense, while 'residir' emphasizes a formal or official place of residence.
Vivir
Vivir is used to express living in a more general or casual sense. It can mean to live as in to reside, but it's also used to describe life experiences or daily routines.
Yo vivo en España.
(I live in Spain.)
Ella vive una vida feliz.
(She lives a happy life.)
Residir
'Residir' is more formal and emphasizes an official residence. It's often used in formal texts, legal documents and high-level language. In everyday conversation, it's much less common than 'vivir'.
El embajador reside en una mansión.
(The ambassador resides in a mansion.)
Los ancianos residen en un hogar de ancianos.
(The elders reside in a nursing home.)
Summary
'Vivir' and 'residir' can both translate as 'to live', but they are not always interchangeable. While 'vivir' could be used for describing any living situation, life experiences or daily routines; 'residir' is typically associated with an official or formal place of dwelling.