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Continuity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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continuity

[kɑːnˌtɪnjuˈɪti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

The quality or state of being continuous. In mathematics, continuity is a property of a function that describes the absence of any abrupt changes in value.

Synonyms

consistency, smoothness, uninterruptedness.

Examples of usage

  • The continuity of the function ensures that there are no sudden jumps in the graph.
  • The concept of continuity is fundamental in calculus and analysis.
Context #2 | Noun

film

Continuity refers to the consistency of details in a film from one shot to another. It ensures that there are no inconsistencies in props, costumes, or actions between scenes.

Synonyms

coherence, consistency, continuation.

Examples of usage

  • The director pays close attention to continuity to avoid mistakes in the final edit.
  • Continuity errors can be distracting for the audience.
Context #3 | Noun

physics

In physics, continuity refers to the principle that a physical quantity remains constant within a system unless acted upon by an external force. It is related to the conservation of mass, energy, and momentum.

Synonyms

constancy, persistence, stability.

Examples of usage

  • The law of continuity states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed.
  • The concept of continuity helps explain the behavior of fluids in motion.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In math, continuity describes a function that doesn't have any jumps, breaks, or holes.
  • A continuous function can be drawn without lifting your pencil from the paper, which is essential in calculus.
  • The concept of continuity helps understand limits and behaviors of functions as they approach certain points.

Film and Literature

  • Continuity in film refers to keeping consistency in details like props, costumes, and lighting across scenes.
  • Writers use continuity to ensure that storylines flow logically without contradictions, creating a smoother reading experience.
  • Errors in continuity are often seen as mistakes that can confuse the audience, sometimes leading to ‘plot holes’.

Sociology

  • In social sciences, continuity can refer to traditions and practices that are passed down through generations.
  • Communities often rely on continuity to maintain cultural identity, ensuring values and beliefs persist over time.
  • Events that disrupt continuity, such as wars or migrations, can profoundly impact societal structures and relationships.

Education

  • In teaching, continuity is important for building knowledge—students need to connect new information with what they've learned before.
  • Curricula designed with continuity in mind often lead to better retention and understanding of subjects among students.
  • Educational theories stress the importance of a continuous experience in learning to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Origin of 'continuity'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'continuitas,' which means 'uninterrupted' or 'unbroken.'
  • It has been used in English since the late Middle Ages, first relating to time and space.
  • The prefix 'con-' means 'together' or 'with,' and 'tinuare' comes from 'tenere,' meaning 'to hold.'

The word 'continuity' originated from the Latin word 'continuitas', which means 'uninterrupted connection or succession'. It first appeared in the English language in the 17th century. The concept of continuity has been fundamental in various fields such as mathematics, physics, and film, emphasizing the importance of consistency and smooth transitions. Understanding continuity is crucial for maintaining coherence and stability in different systems and disciplines.

See also: continual, continually, continuance, continuation, continuing, continuous, continuously, discontinuance, discontinuation, discontinue, discontinued, discontinuity, discontinuous.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,965, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.