Discontinuity: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.