Definition of continuousnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word continuous different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of continuous are constant, continual, incessant, perennial, and perpetual. While all these words mean "characterized by continued occurrence or recurrence," continuous usually implies an uninterrupted flow or spatial extension.

football's oldest continuous rivalry

In what contexts can constant take the place of continuous?

The words constant and continuous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, constant implies uniform or persistent occurrence or recurrence.

lived in constant pain

When would continual be a good substitute for continuous?

While in some cases nearly identical to continuous, continual often implies a close prolonged succession or recurrence.

continual showers the whole weekend

When could incessant be used to replace continuous?

While the synonyms incessant and continuous are close in meaning, incessant implies ceaseless or uninterrupted activity.

annoyed by the incessant quarreling

When is perennial a more appropriate choice than continuous?

The meanings of perennial and continuous largely overlap; however, perennial implies enduring existence often through constant renewal.

a perennial source of controversy

When might perpetual be a better fit than continuous?

In some situations, the words perpetual and continuous are roughly equivalent. However, perpetual suggests unfailing repetition or lasting duration.

a land of perpetual snowfall

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of continuous Complete with zip pockets, a continuous drawstring loop, and reflective properties, these leggings are perfect for hiking, jogging, and other outdoor activities. Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2026 By cutting t-shirts into continuous strips and giving them a gentle stretch, the fabric curls into a soft, versatile yarn. Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 10 Jan. 2026 The agent’s experience in ICE included a selection to a Special Response Team, McLaughlin said, which requires 30 hours of tryouts, continuous training and expert marksman qualifications. Allison Gordon, CNN Money, 9 Jan. 2026 The announcement comes as consumer demand for plug-in hybrids has slowed and federal support for electric powertrains has vanished, while, simultaneously, certain Stellantis 4xe vehicles have been marred by continuous recalls. Liam Rappleye, Freep.com, 9 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for continuous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for continuous
Adjective
  • Such overlaps have been standard procedure since the station's continual occupation for more than two decades of operation.
    Josh Dinner, Space.com, 9 Jan. 2026
  • As the amputee bled out, he was filmed expressing his continual and clear agreement to being killed and dismembered.
    S. C. Cornell, New Yorker, 5 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • In this regard, recommendations of top Wall Street analysts can help investors pick attractive stocks of companies that generate solid cash flows to support continued dividend payments.
    TipRanks.com Staff, CNBC, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Warm weekend for Miami, Broward Saturday will bring more sunshine and continued warmth, with highs again in the low 80s and only a minimal chance of rain.
    CBS Miami Team, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Officials said overnight enforcement will focus on common and continuing offenses such as commercial vehicles parked in residential areas and permit violations.
    Michelle Deal-Zimmerman, Baltimore Sun, 6 Mar. 2025
  • State of the labor market Initial weekly unemployment insurance claims have held in a fairly steady range around 220,000, though continuing claims earlier in November had hit their highest level in about three years.
    Jeff Cox, CNBC, 5 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport CBS CBS News Colorado has spoken with many neighbors in that community who are upset over the nonstop noise from flights.
    Maria Braganini, CBS News, 15 Jan. 2026
  • Neurologists also pay close attention when someone who has been quiet and serious their whole life suddenly takes on a boisterous personality, talking nonstop.
    Angela Haupt, Time, 15 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Its urgency stems from the job’s incessant demands, illustrated by the steady flow of patients flooding The Pitt.
    Ben Travers, IndieWire, 5 Jan. 2026
  • Anxiety comes from the incessant pressure of juggling finances in such a way to try to make monthly payments.
    Annie Nova, CNBC, 6 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • From this vantage point, Carruthers gains an uninterrupted view of Earth’s extended atmosphere.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 13 Jan. 2026
  • In an October 2024 news release announcing the Metra station groundbreaking, village officials said the former station was built in 1976 and project phasing for the new 1,280-square-foot one was designed to maintain uninterrupted Metra service through all construction phases.
    Jessi Virtusio, Chicago Tribune, 12 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Continuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/continuous. Accessed 22 Jan. 2026.

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