Words / B2

k-uh-n-TIN-yoo-uh-s/kənˈtɪnjuəs/

Continuous means going on without a break: a continuous noise, continuous assessment. Constant is a close cousin (happening a lot, or not changing); continual often means repeated with pauses (continual interruptions). In grammar, the continuous aspect is be + -ing. Continuously is the adverb. In speech, non-stop or without a break is enough. In careful English, keep continuous (unbroken) distinct from continual (recurring).

Meaning

Going on without a break.

Examples

• “There was a continuous noise from the road.”
• “There was a continuous hum from the projector through the whole film.”
• “Continuous assessment replaced one brutal exam, but the workload never paused.”

Good to know

Without a break. Everyday: non-stop. Close: constant. Contrast: continual = repeated with gaps. Grammar: continuous aspect (be + -ing).

Near in meaning

constant

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