Discontinuously: meaning, definitions and examples
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discontinuously
[ dɪsˈkɒntɪnjuəsli ]
manner of occurrence
In a discontinuous manner means that something occurs at intervals rather than continuously. It refers to the occurrence of events or processes that are interrupted or not steady.
Synonyms
intermittently, irregularly, non-continuously, sporadically.
Examples of usage
- The service was offered discontinuously due to the repairs.
- Data was collected discontinuously over several months.
- He spoke discontinuously, pausing frequently.
- The software updates were released discontinuously throughout the year.
Etymology
The word 'discontinuously' originates from the Latin word 'discontinuus', which is formed from 'dis-', indicating separation, and 'continuus', meaning unbroken or continuous. The prefix 'dis-' implies a reversal or negation, while 'continuus' comes from 'continere', meaning to hold together. Over time, the term evolved into Middle French before making its way into English in the late 15th century, maintaining the notion of interruption or lack of a smooth or steady progress. It has been used in various contexts, particularly in mathematics, science, and philosophy, to describe functions, processes, or situations that do not proceed in a seamless or unbroken manner.