Continuance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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continuance
[kənˈtɪn.ju.əns ]
Definitions
legal term
The action of continuing something or the state of being continued. Continuance is often granted in legal proceedings to allow for more time or to postpone a hearing.
Synonyms
extension, postponement, prolongation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| continuance |
Appropriate in legal and formal scenarios to refer to the duration or persistence of something, often a court proceeding.
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| extension |
Commonly used when referring to an increase in time or space, such as deadlines, contracts, or physical structures.
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| postponement |
Used to describe the act of delaying an event or action to a later time, often temporarily.
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| prolongation |
Refers to making something last longer than usual, often with a slightly negative connotation, implying it may be unwanted or unnecessary.
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Examples of usage
- The judge granted a continuance for the trial.
- The lawyer requested a continuance to gather more evidence.
formal
The fact or condition of continuing without interruption; continuation.
Synonyms
continuation, perpetuation, persistence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| continuance |
Used in formal contexts, especially legal or administrative proceedings, to indicate the extension or postponement of something.
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| continuation |
Generally refers to the fact of continuing something or carrying it forward, and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| persistence |
Indicates the fact of continuing in an action or situation, often despite difficulties or opposition. Commonly used to describe positive traits, but can also have negative connotations.
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| perpetuation |
Usually implies the act of making something continue indefinitely, often used in negative contexts to describe the unwanted prolongation of issues or problems.
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Examples of usage
- The continuance of the rain caused flooding in the area.
- The company is committed to the continuance of quality service.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal terms, continuance refers to the postponement of a court hearing or trial to a later date.
- It serves to ensure fairness, giving parties time to prepare adequately.
- Continuances can be requested for various reasons, including needing more time for evidence collection or scheduling conflicts.
Philosophy
- The concept relates to discussions on the nature of existence and the continuity of life.
- Philosophers debate whether something can continue to exist if it changes fundamentally over time.
- Continuity is often seen as essential for identity; if something changes too much, is it still the same entity?
Psychology
- Continuance can relate to cognitive processes, where individuals prefer familiarity and ongoing experiences.
- The idea of continuity can affect decision-making, as people often choose what feels familiar over novel alternatives.
- Mental models in psychology help understand how people perceive continuity in their lives and relationships.
Cultural Impact
- Continuance is a theme in many works of art and literature, exploring the idea of perseverance through challenges.
- In cinema, sequels represent the notion of continuance by extending a story beyond its original ending.
- Cultural rituals and traditions often emphasize the importance of continuance, celebrating legacies and heritage.
Origin of 'continuance'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'continuare', meaning 'to join together, to connect'.
- It was first used in English during the late 14th century, originally relating to the idea of holding together.
- The suffix '-ance' indicates a state or quality, suggesting the state of continuing.
The word 'continuance' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'continuance' and the Latin word 'continuantia'. The term has been used in legal contexts since the 14th century to refer to the act of continuing or the state of being continued. Over time, it has also come to be used in a more general sense to denote the continuation or persistence of something without interruption.
See also: continual, continually, continuation, continuing, continuity, continuous, continuously, discontinuance, discontinuation, discontinue, discontinued, discontinuity, discontinuous.