WordGarden.iocontinuity
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /kɒntɪnjˈuːɪti/
US
- /ˌkɑntəˈnuəti/
Meanings
Noun
the continuing existence or operation of something without interruption
consistency of details across scenes in a film, television show, or performance
the mathematical property of changing without jumps or breaks
Beyond the definition
Imagine telling a story—you want it to flow, right? That smooth, uninterrupted progression of events is continuity. It's about things following logically from one another, whether we're talking about time, space, or even ideas. A film series relies on continuity to make sense; each movie builds upon the last. A writer strives for continuity in their characters—they shouldn't suddenly act completely out of character! You might also talk about "business continuity," meaning a plan to keep things running smoothly even if something unexpected happens.
Continuity refers to the state of being unbroken or uninterrupted, often implying a logical connection between events or elements. It's more than just following one after another; it suggests a consistent and coherent progression. Think of a flowing river—that's continuity in action.
You can talk about continuity in many contexts. In storytelling (books, movies, games), it means maintaining consistency in plot, characters, and setting across multiple installments. A lack of continuity—a "plot hole"—can pull you right out of the experience! In mathematics, continuity describes functions that don't have sudden jumps or breaks.
Beyond these specific areas, continuity can also refer to a general sense of stability or unbroken tradition. "There was continuity in the family's farming practices" means they continued those traditions for generations. In business, "business continuity planning" is about ensuring operations continue, even during disruptions like natural disasters or cyberattacks.
Sometimes, it's used more subtly to describe a feeling of seamlessness. "There was a pleasing continuity between the music and the artwork," which suggests they blended together harmoniously.
So, whether you're discussing narratives, numbers, traditions, or simply a smooth transition from one thing to another—continuity is about connection, consistency, and an unbroken flow.
Examples
- 1
Novel structure
There isn't much continuity between the first chapter and the rest of the novel.
- 2
Project management
We need someone who can provide continuity for the project while the manager is away.
- 3
Medical care
The hospital is trying to improve continuity of care for patients with long-term illnesses.
- Domaincontinuity of care
treatment that stays connected and consistent over time
- 4
Product design
The new design keeps some continuity with the company's older products.
- Patterncontinuity with + earlier thing
a clear connection to what existed before
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Film editing
The editor spotted a continuity error: the actor's tie changes color in the next scene.
- Domaincontinuity error
a mistake when details do not match from one shot or scene to the next
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- stability
- seamlessness
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- maintain continuity
- ensure continuity
- business continuity
- continuity of care
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- continuitynoun
Forms
- continuitiespluralnoun