a continual string of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a continual string of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an ongoing or repeated series of events, actions, or items that occur without interruption. Example: "The project faced a continual string of challenges that tested the team's resilience."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

So, for Salmon the spotlight spot does not transmit energy in the absence of interactions, but involves a continual string of interactions.

SEP

RBS first planted a flag in the U.S. in 1988, making its first acquisition during the savings-and-loan crisis, before rolling out a continual string of modest add-ons like Connecticut's Farmers &Mechanics and Massachusetts' Quincy Savings Bank.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The progress of an artist is a continual self-sacrifice, a continual extinction of personality….

The New Yorker

Erté has been a continual source of inspiration to designers.

The New York Times

The Zhou feudalism suffered from a continual dilution of authority.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Equipment problems are a continual source of headaches.

The New York Times - Sports

The newspaper model is in a continual state of flux.

The New York Times

Education should consist in a continual repetition of such cycles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Gradually, however, its losses forced him to institute a continual round of cutbacks.

The Guardian

For many ordinary Washingtonians, there is a continual sense of anxiety.

The New York Times

His inability to rein in Palestinian terrorist groups was a continual vote of no confidence.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a continual string of", ensure that the items or events you're describing truly form a connected series. Avoid using it for unrelated or loosely connected items.

Common error

Avoid confusing "continual" with "continuous". "Continual" implies a repeated series with possible interruptions, while "continuous" means without any interruption. If the series is truly unbroken, "a continuous string of" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a continual string of" functions as a determiner and noun phrase modifier. It describes a series of events, actions, or items that occur repeatedly over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound. Examples show it used to describe setbacks, interactions and more.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a continual string of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a recurring series of events or items, possibly with interruptions. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's relatively rare in usage. The phrase is most commonly found in news and scientific contexts and serves to emphasize the repetitive and often problematic nature of the described sequence. Remember to differentiate "continual" from "continuous", and ensure the described elements truly form a connected series. Consider alternatives like "a constant barrage of" or "a continuous flow of" depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a non-stop series of

Stresses the lack of interruption in the sequence.

a continuous flow of

Focuses on the smooth and unbroken progression of events.

an unending stream of

Similar to 'flow', but suggests a larger volume or quantity.

a constant barrage of

Emphasizes the intensity and relentlessness of the series.

an ongoing chain of

Highlights the interconnectedness of elements within the sequence.

a never-ending succession of

Highlights the seemingly infinite nature of the sequence.

a perpetual sequence of

Emphasizes the permanence and unchanging character of the sequence.

a steady procession of

Implies a more formal and orderly sequence.

a regular sequence of

Highlights the predictable and patterned nature of the series.

a repeated cycle of

Emphasizes the cyclical and recurring nature of the events.

FAQs

How can I use "a continual string of" in a sentence?

Use "a continual string of" to describe a series of events or items that happen repeatedly, possibly with interruptions. For example, "The company faced "a continual string of" setbacks this quarter."

What are some alternatives to "a continual string of"?

Alternatives include "a continuous flow of", "a constant barrage of", or "a never-ending succession of", depending on the specific context and emphasis you want to convey.

Is it better to use "continual" or "continuous" in "a string of"?

"Continual" implies repetition with possible interruptions, while "continuous" implies an unbroken sequence. Choose the word that best reflects the nature of the series you are describing. Use "a continuous string of" only if there are no interruptions.

What's the difference between "a string of" and "a continual string of"?

"A string of" simply indicates a sequence or series. Adding "continual" emphasizes that the sequence is repeated over time, possibly with some interruptions. The first express general meaning, the second specifies that the series occurs repeatedly over time.