at a constant rate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a constant rate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is happening steadily and without change over time. Example: "The car was moving at a constant rate of speed, ensuring a smooth and steady journey."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Genes, like languages, do not mutate at a constant rate.

The New York Times - Science

Molecular sequences rarely evolve at a constant rate.

Stanford University

Increase payouts at a constant rate and adjust for risk.

Harvard Business Review

Our first one samples at a constant rate and kept a steering state variable.

Cornell University

This note is repeated at a constant rate of delivery in about 5-6 second intervals.

Cornell University

For this reason we recommend that boards increase payouts at a constant rate relative to performance.

Harvard Business Review

For example, a falling body accelerates at a constant rate, g.

Britannica

Obviously if sea level rise is accelerating, it's not increasing at a constant rate.

The Guardian

Bonnasse-Gahot and co assume this happens at a constant rate.

MIT Technology Review

Averaged over a sufficient period, such random changes accumulate at a constant rate in neutral genes.

The Economist

The boy, the specialist concluded, "continues to grow at a constant rate".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing scientific or technical processes, use "at a constant rate" to convey precision and predictability. For example, "The solution was added to the mixture at a constant rate to ensure accurate results."

Common error

Avoid using "at a constant rate" when you actually mean "at an average rate". "Constant" implies no change over time, while "average" suggests a fluctuating rate whose mean value is being considered. For example, instead of saying "The stock price increased at a constant rate over the year", consider "The stock price increased at an average rate of X% per year" if there were fluctuations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a constant rate" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe how an action is performed. Ludwig examples show its use in specifying the manner in which processes occur, emphasizing a steady and unchanging pace.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

68%

News & Media

18%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at a constant rate" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to describe actions that occur steadily and uniformly over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in science, news, and academia. When using this phrase, ensure that the rate truly remains unchanged, and avoid confusing it with concepts like "average rate". For situations requiring a more nuanced expression, consider alternatives like "at a steady pace" or "in a consistent manner". By understanding its proper application and potential pitfalls, you can effectively communicate precision and clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a steady pace

Replaces "constant rate" with "steady pace", emphasizing consistency in speed or progress.

at a uniform speed

Substitutes "rate" with "speed" and "constant" with "uniform", focusing on consistent velocity.

at a fixed tempo

Replaces "rate" with "tempo", implying a consistent rhythm or pace, often in music or other timed activities.

at an even keel

Uses a metaphorical expression, indicating a state of stability and consistent progress without sudden changes.

in a consistent manner

Shifts the focus to the manner of execution, highlighting the consistency of the process.

without fluctuation

Emphasizes the absence of change or variation in the rate or pace.

at a regular clip

Uses "clip" as an informal synonym for rate, suggesting a consistent and brisk pace.

in a predictable fashion

Highlights the predictability of the rate or pace, emphasizing its consistency.

on an ongoing basis

Indicates that the activity or process occurs continuously and consistently over time.

at a set increment

Focuses on the specific increment or amount by which something increases or changes consistently.

FAQs

How can I use "at a constant rate" in a sentence?

You can use "at a constant rate" to describe processes that occur steadily without change, such as "The IV drip released medication "at a steady rate"" or "The plant grew "at a consistent rate" throughout the experiment."

What are some alternatives to saying "at a constant rate"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at a steady pace", "at a uniform speed", or "in a consistent manner", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "at a constant rate"?

It's inappropriate if the rate fluctuates or varies over time. In such cases, it would be more accurate to describe the rate as "variable", "fluctuating", or to provide an average rate if applicable.

What's the difference between "at a constant rate" and "at an increasing rate"?

"At a constant rate" means something progresses steadily without acceleration or deceleration. "At an increasing rate" means something is speeding up over time. For instance, a car traveling at 60 mph is moving "at a constant rate", while a car accelerating from 0 to 60 mph is moving "at an increasing rate".