constant as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constant as a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that remains unchanged or stable over time, often in a simile. Example: "Her dedication to her work is constant as a northern star."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

The Guardian - Music

"Although styles and fashions change, Vogue has remained constant as a chronicler and to some extent creator of a certain type of world that fascinates.

The Guardian - Arts

If you want me I'll be in the bar "Constant as a northern star" is from Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," but Mitchell's retort wins the opening skirmish.

The New Yorker

Despite falling participation, overall levels of giving have remained broadly constant as a share of income thanks to increased average donations.

The Guardian

That state spending remained constant as a share of G.D.P. in a growing economy proves that the state governments were growing too big and too fat.

The New York Times

When this is taken into account, the volume of spending on goods and services remained broadly constant as a proportion of the total in the 1990s.

The Economist

It is a natural extension of this idea to use the equilibrium constant as a measure of the strength of A1 relative to A2.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But recent studies show most of the increase has come as the value of assets has increased and that asset management fees have remained roughly constant as a share of assets.

The Guardian - Business

P. Botkin himself," Herzen wrote, referring to a famous reactionary, "constant as a sunflower in his inclination toward any manifestation of power, looked with tenderness on The Bell as though it had been stuffed with truffles".

The New York Times - Books

As a whole, though, corporate spending on R. & D. has risen steadily over the years, and has stayed relatively constant as a share of G.D.P. and as a share of sales.

The New Yorker

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "constant as a", ensure the comparison is easily understood and adds emphasis to the quality you're highlighting. For example, "Her dedication was constant as a northern star" clearly illustrates unwavering commitment.

Common error

Avoid using overly familiar comparisons after "constant as a", like "constant as a rock", which can diminish the impact of your writing. Instead, opt for more original and vivid comparisons that resonate with your specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constant as a" functions primarily as a simile, using comparison to describe something that remains unchanged or stable. Ludwig confirms its correct usage and provides various real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "constant as a" is a simile used to describe something that remains unchanged or stable over time. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in both formal and informal contexts. Common usages are found in scientific literature and news media, showcasing its versatility. When using "constant as a", ensure your comparison adds emphasis and clarity. Avoid clichés; instead, use vivid imagery to enhance your writing. Consider alternatives such as ""stable like"" or ""remaining constant"" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Remaining constant

Focuses on the action of staying constant over time.

As unchanging as

Substitutes "constant" with "unchanging" to emphasize immutability.

Stable like

Replaces "constant" with "stable" and omits "as a" for a more concise simile.

As dependable as

Highlights the characteristic of being trustworthy and reliable.

Consistent with

Replaces the simile structure with a direct statement of consistency.

Unwavering like

Indicates something that does not fluctuate or change.

Reliable as

Focuses on the dependability aspect of being constant.

Steadfast as

Emphasizes unwavering loyalty or resolve.

As regular as

Implies predictability and uniformity.

Fixed like

Emphasizes the static and unchangeable nature.

FAQs

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

Use "constant as a" to compare something to a known stable entity. For example, "His support was "constant as a rock"" signifies unwavering support.

What's a good alternative to "constant as a"?

Alternatives include "stable like", "remaining constant" or "as unchanging as", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "constant as a"?

Yes, "constant as a" is grammatically correct. It's a simile construction used to illustrate a quality by comparing it to something known for that quality.

What is the difference between "constant as a" and "steady as"?

"Constant as a" implies unchanging nature over time, while "steady as" suggests stability and lack of fluctuation. You could say "constant as a northern star" or "steady as a rock" but they highlight slightly different aspects of stability.