Words / C1

s-uh-k-SES-iv/səkˈsesɪv/

Successive means following one after another without a break: on three successive nights, successive governments. Consecutive (already in the dictionary) is the close twin; sequential (already in the dictionary) stresses order; successive is the chain of things. Successor is the person who follows. Do not call a repeated failure luck.

Meaning

Following one after another without interruption.

Examples

• “Three successive unstaffed sittings are a pattern, not a run of bad luck.”
• “Consecutive is already in this course and very close. Next is everyday. Sequential is already in this course (order). A successor is a person. One gap can be an incident. Three is a system. Minute the pattern.”

Good to know

One after another. Close: consecutive / sequential (already in the dictionary). Person: successor. Repeat is a pattern.

Near in meaning

consecutive

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