Discontinuity: meaning, definitions and examples

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discontinuity

[ˌdɪs.kənˈtɪn.ju.ə.ti ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mathematics

A discontinuity is a point at which a mathematical function is not continuous, or a point at which a function is not defined.

Synonyms

break, disruption, gap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
discontinuity	best used in formal contexts or technical discussions, especially in fields like mathematics, physics, or in describing a significant interruption in a pattern or sequence. The scientist pointed out a discontinuity in the data. There is a discontinuity in the fabric of space-time.
disruption	usually applied in situations where there is an unexpected interruption or disturbance, often causing problems. It carries a slightly negative connotation. The storm caused a major disruption in our travel plans. There was a disruption in the internet service.
break	commonly used in everyday conversations to describe something that has come to a stop, interrupt, or fractured. It is versatile and can apply to physical objects, time, or situations. Let's take a break and have some coffee. There was a break in the negotiations.
gap	appropriate for describing a space or interval where something is missing. It can refer to physical spaces, differences, or missing elements in a sequence. There is a gap between the two buildings. The study showed a significant gap in the income levels between the two groups.

Examples of usage

The function has a discontinuity at x=0.
The discontinuity in the graph causes a break in the curve.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

physics

In physics, discontinuity refers to a sudden change or interruption in a physical process or property.

Synonyms

discontinuance, disruption, interruption.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
discontinuity	This term is commonly used in science and mathematics to describe a break or gap in a sequence, process, or structure. The graph shows a discontinuity at x = 2. There was a notable discontinuity in the patient's medical history.
disruption	Disruption refers to a disturbance that interrupts an event, process, or system. It often carries a negative connotation. The power outage caused a major disruption in the city. The company's operations suffered a significant disruption due to the protest.
discontinuance	This word is often used in legal and administrative settings to refer to the formal ending or cessation of a process or service. The court ordered the discontinuance of the case. Discontinuance of service will take effect next month.
interruption	This word is used to describe a temporary halt or pause in an activity or process. There was a brief interruption during the meeting. The movie was enjoyable despite the interruptions.

Examples of usage

The discontinuity in the wave pattern indicates a change in the medium.
The discontinuity in temperature suggests a shift in the system.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

general

Discontinuity can also refer to a lack of connection or coherence in a sequence or series of events.

Synonyms

disconnection, disruption, inconsistency.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
discontinuity	Use this word when describing a break or gap in a sequence or progress. It is often employed in academic, scientific, or technical contexts. The data showed a clear discontinuity in the temperature records. There was a discontinuity in the process that affected the final outcome.
disruption	Use this word to describe a disturbance or interruption that causes disorder, especially in social, business, or technological scenarios. It often carries a negative connotation. The power outage caused a significant disruption to the event. The new policy led to the disruption of the established norms.
disconnection	This word is suitable for describing the state of being detached or separated, particularly in the context of relationships, communication, or technical connections. There's a disconnection between the theory and practice. The disconnection of the internet disrupted the entire team's work.
inconsistency	This word is useful when describing a lack of agreement, uniformity, or steadiness, often in data, behavior, or statements. It usually implies a negative outcome or confusion. The inconsistency in his statements made his argument less credible. There was an inconsistency in the financial reports that needed to be addressed.

Examples of usage

The discontinuity in the narrative confused the readers.
The sudden discontinuity in his behavior puzzled his friends.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Latin word 'discontinuare,' meaning to break off or separate.
It has been used in the English language since the late Middle Ages to denote interruptions in processes or sequences.
The prefix 'dis-' indicates negation, while 'continuity' refers to the state of being continuous.

Mathematics

In calculus, discontinuity refers to points where a function does not behave predictably, often seen as breaks in graphs.
There are different types of discontinuities, such as removable, jump, and infinite, each affecting how functions are analyzed.
Understanding discontinuities is essential for determining limits and the behavior of equations near specific points.

Physics

In physics, a discontinuity can occur in materials when stress causes a complete failure leading to a break or fracture.
This concept helps scientists understand various phenomena, such as phase transitions where materials change state abruptly.
Studying these changes can reveal insights about the fundamental laws governing physical substances.

Art and Literature

Discontinuity is often used in storytelling techniques, such as non-linear narratives that jump between times or events.
Visual artists may employ discontinuity to create dynamic compositions, disrupting viewers’ expectations.
Famous works like Virginia Woolf's 'To the Lighthouse' exemplify this technique, showcasing shifts in time and perspective.

Cultural Studies

In cultural contexts, discontinuity may refer to breaks in traditions or social practices, particularly during times of conflict or change.
It can impact community identities, as groups may struggle to maintain continuity amid external influences.
Historical events, such as revolutions, often create notable discontinuities in societal norms and values.

Translations

Translations of the word "discontinuity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 descontinuidade

🇮🇳 विच्छेदन

🇩🇪 Diskontinuität

🇮🇩 diskontinuitas

🇺🇦 розрив

🇵🇱 nieciągłość

🇯🇵 不連続

🇫🇷 discontinuité

🇪🇸 discontinuidad

🇹🇷 süreksizlik

🇰🇷 불연속

🇸🇦 انقطاع

🇨🇿 diskontinuita

🇸🇰 diskontinuita

🇨🇳 不连续性

🇸🇮 diskontinuiteta

🇮🇸 ósamfella

🇰🇿 үздіксіздік

🇬🇪 უწყვეტობა

🇦🇿 kəsilmə

🇲🇽 discontinuidad

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,244, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13241 decentralized
13242 strung
13243 valiant
13244 discontinuity
13245 rectal
13246 aboriginal
13247 comptroller
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