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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Continuous and Continual?

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The difference between "continuous" and "continual" lies in the extent of interruption in the events or processes they describe:

  • Continuous: This term refers to something that occurs without interruption or ceasing, in an unbroken stream of time or space. For example, a continuous process would be one that runs smoothly without any breaks or pauses.
  • Continual: This term refers to something that recurs frequently or regularly, but with breaks in between. For example, continual rain would mean that it rains repeatedly, but there are periods of sunshine or dry weather in between the rain events.

In summary:

  • Continuous means without interruption or ceasing.
  • Continual means repeated, but with breaks in between.
  • Continuous implies a smooth, unbroken stream of time or space.
  • Continual implies intervals or pauses between repetitions.
On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Continuous and Continual?
  • Comparative Table: Continuous vs Continual

    • Comparative Table: Continuous vs Continual

    The terms "continuous" and "continual" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

    Term Meaning Example
    Continuous Uninterrupted, going on without stopping. A continuous highway from New York to Los Angeles.
    Beginningless and endless. A circle is a continuous shape.
    Continual Repeated frequently, with intervals in between. Continual storms throughout the rainy season.
    Interrupted and stops periodically. The continual beeping of a heart monitor in a hospital.

    In summary, "continuous" refers to something that is ongoing and uninterrupted, while "continual" refers to something that is frequently repeated with intervals in between.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.