Word: Continual (adjective)
Definition:
The word "continual" means something that happens repeatedly or frequently, but it does not happen all the time without any breaks. It often refers to things that occur regularly over a period of time.
Usage Instructions:
- Use "continual" when describing actions or events that happen many times, but with some pauses or breaks in between. - Be careful not to confuse "continual" with "continuous." "Continuous" means something that happens without any stops at all.
Example Sentences:
1. The continual noise from the construction site made it hard for me to concentrate on my work. 2. She has a continual habit of checking her phone every few minutes.
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced contexts, "continual" can be used to describe situations, feelings, or actions that recur often enough to be noticeable, but don't overlap completely. For instance: - The company's continual growth over the years has impressed many investors.
Word Variants:
- Continuity (noun): The state of being continuous or uninterrupted. - Continue (verb): To persist in an activity or process.
Different Meanings:
While "continual" primarily refers to repeated occurrences, you might also encounter it in contexts discussing patterns, trends, or behaviors that show regularity.
Synonyms:
- Repeated - Frequent - Recurring - Ongoing
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "continual," but you might come across phrases like: - "Continual struggle" (referring to repeated efforts to overcome difficulties).