as constant as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as constant as a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unwavering or unchanging, often followed by a simile to complete the expression. Example: "Her support was as constant as a lighthouse guiding ships through the stormy sea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Just before our love got lost you said, 'I am as constant as a northern star,'" she opens.

The Guardian - Music

Both contain literary allusions; Mitchell was drawn to Cohen's bookishness: Just before our love got lost you said I am as constant as a northern star and I said Constantly in the darkness Where's that at?

The New Yorker

Using critical flicker fusion frequency, the lowest frequency of flashing at which a flickering light source is perceived as constant, as a measure of the maximum rate of temporal information processing in the visual system, we carried out a phylogenetic comparative analysis of a wide range of vertebrates that supported this hypothesis.

Animal Behaviour

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The reaction of the blood is maintained as constant as possible by a continual variation of the respective values of... several factors, so that an estimation of the value of any one, or any particular clinical symptom, such as whether alkaline reserve, free CO2 rapid breathing, may be wholly misleading.

Bulletin of the History of Medicine

This requires a reliable supply of low-cost iron with a uniform chemical composition, which is attainable only by keeping the operating condition of a blast furnace as constant as possible; this in turn requires a consistent iron consumer.

Encyclopedia Britannica

During the trial duration, drug treatment should be kept as constant as it is appropriate for an optimal routine medication management.

BMC Geriatrics

But behind the governor's agenda there is a truth as constant as failed New Year's resolutions: Lifestyle changes are easier said than done.

The New York Times

Her commitment to keeping an audience's attention is as constant as her technical gifts.

The New Yorker

Temperature in a wine storage area should be as constant as possible.

WikiHow

Its toxicity is as constant as its presence.

The New Yorker

It was as constant as the sky being blue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the simile "as constant as a" to effectively emphasize the unwavering nature or reliability of something by comparing it to a well-known constant.

Common error

Avoid using clichés such as "as constant as the northern star" too frequently. Try to find fresh and relevant comparisons that resonate with your specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as constant as a" primarily functions as a simile, which is a figure of speech that directly compares two things. Ludwig AI shows examples where it's used to emphasize the unwavering nature of something.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as constant as a" is a simile used to emphasize the unwavering reliability or consistency of something. Ludwig AI analysis shows its versatility across contexts like News & Media, Science, and general writing. While grammatically correct, it's crucial to select comparisons that resonate with the intended audience. To avoid clichés, use fresh, original comparisons to enhance your writing. Though the phrase is rated as having rare usage, selecting appropriate and novel comparisons is key for impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as reliable as clockwork

This alternative replaces "constant" with "reliable" and uses the imagery of clockwork to emphasize dependability.

as dependable as the sunrise

This alternative replaces "constant" with "dependable" and uses the sunrise as a metaphor for something predictable and reliable.

as steady as a rock

This alternative uses "steady" instead of "constant" and the image of a rock to convey stability and consistency.

as consistent as gravity

This alternative replaces the example with "gravity", suggesting an unfailing force.

as predictable as the tides

This alternative uses the predictability of tides to illustrate unwavering consistency.

as unchanging as time

This alternative presents time as something consistent, though this can be debatable.

as persistent as the wind

This alternative shifts the focus to persistence, suggesting an unyielding nature.

as resolute as a mountain

This alternative expresses consistency through the image of a mountain's firm resolve.

always a certainty

This alternative focuses on the certainty of something rather than its consistency.

a perennial fixture

This alternative describes something that is constantly present or recurring, like a fixture.

FAQs

How can I use "as constant as a" in a sentence?

You can use "as constant as a" to draw a comparison, highlighting the unwavering nature of something by likening it to something reliably consistent. For example, "Her dedication was as constant as a ticking clock".

What phrases are similar to "as constant as a"?

Similar phrases include "as steady as a rock", "as reliable as clockwork", and "as dependable as the sunrise". These all emphasize reliability and consistency.

Is it okay to use "as constant as a" in formal writing?

Yes, "as constant as a" can be used in formal writing, but consider the specific comparison you are making. Ensure it aligns with the tone and audience of your writing.

What makes "as constant as a" effective in writing?

The effectiveness of "as constant as a" lies in its ability to create a vivid and relatable image in the reader's mind, emphasizing the unwavering nature of the subject being described. The key is choosing an image that resonates with the audience and context.