What is the Difference between Continuous vs. Continual?
Many people find it difficult to tell the difference between the two words ‘continuous’ and ‘continual.’ This is due to the fact that the difference between them is rather subtle. In this article, we shall understand how these two terms differ from each other, and explore examples supporting the same.
In this article,
- Table Summarising the Difference between Continuous and Continual
- The Meanings of Continual and Continuous
- Examples for Continuous and Continual
- Continual vs. continuous – Conclusion
English grammar may not be so easy to learn, but it is important for a better and brighter future. It is necessary for people to be grammatically correct in their writing. Poor grammar can hinder self-expression and cause difficulties in communication. As we progress in our life, we need to make sure we communicate effectively and without any impediments. This is very true in today’s society, especially in the business world where organizations are more focused on what you say rather than on how you present your work. Some may also consider good English grammar to be a reflection of a person’s intellect, education and work ethics.
Table Summarising the Difference between Continuous and Continual
The following table provides an overview of the difference between continuous and continual:
| Continuous | Continual | |
| Usage | ‘Continuous’ and ‘continual’ are adjectives | |
| Meaning | The word ‘continuous’ refers to something that happens without interruption or ceasing. | ‘Continual’ refers to something that recurs frequently or regularly. |
| Example | A loud and continuous whirring sound was heard just moments before the explosion. | The wolf’s continual howling echoed through the forest. |
The Meanings of Continuous and Continual
- Continuous meaning – ‘Continuous’ refers to something that happens without ever ceasing or being interrupted.
- Continual meaning – ‘Continual’ refers to something that recurs frequently or regularly.
Examples for Continual and Continuous
We shall explore some examples:
- Continuous – Without a continuous supply of oxygen to the brain, cells would start dying, and may result in permanent brain damage.
- Continual – The continual banging of the shutters kept Joan awake.
Continuous vs. Continual – Conclusion
Grammar is complex. There are so many nuances in word choices, sentence structures and the flow of a document that it can be difficult for most people to write something that sounds natural. Regardless of that, proficiency comes with adequate practice and also a willingness to learn. In this article, we learnt the difference between ‘continuous’ and ‘continual’ their usage and examples.
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