constant conjunction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constant conjunction" is correct and can be used in written English, particularly in academic or formal writing.
"Constant conjunction" refers to the relationship between two elements in a sentence that are always joined together and cannot exist without each other. It is often used in the context of grammar and syntax, to describe the rules and patterns that dictate how words are used in a sentence. Example: In this sentence, the subject and verb are in constant conjunction, as one cannot exist without the other. Another example: The use of articles and nouns in English is a constant conjunction, where each noun is accompanied by an article.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

But no such constant conjunction can be established or even intelligibly asserted between God and the universe, and thus the existence of God is not even indirectly verifiable.

Britannica

Thus, the causal principle upon which all knowledge rests represents no necessary connections between things but is simply the result of their constant conjunction in human minds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is also the case that there is no logical ban on establishing what is necessary to establish a causal connection, namely a constant conjunction of two discrete empirical realities.

Britannica

Because the latter conclusion is reminiscent of the theory of causation propounded by the Enlightenment philosopher David Hume (1711 76)—who held that causal relations consist of nothing more than the "constant conjunction" in experience of certain kinds of objects or events Lewis referred to theme 4 as the doctrine of Humean supervenience.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Constant conjunction is neither necessary nor sufficient for the presence of a genuine law.

SEP

There must be an invariable or constant conjunction between c-type entities and e-type entities.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

In the latter, what are in question are constant conjunctions, observed but not understood; in the former, men have insight into what happens or obtains because they can reenact in their own minds the thought behind the material they study.

Britannica

If constant conjunctions were all that is involved, my thoughts about aspirin and headaches would only be hypothetical.

SEP

The necessity argument suggests that there exist only constant conjunctions between these objects (i.e. willings and actions).

SEP

We discover laws of nature on the basis of our experience of constant conjunctions of events or objects.

SEP

The natural scientist enquires after constant conjunctions because the goal of the natural scientist is to predict.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing Humean philosophy or theories of causation, use "constant conjunction" to accurately represent the concept of observed regularities between events.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because two events are in "constant conjunction", one necessarily causes the other. Always consider other potential factors and the possibility of mere correlation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constant conjunction" functions as a noun phrase within philosophical and academic discourse. It encapsulates a specific concept related to causality, particularly within the framework of Humean philosophy. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

News & Media

10%

Academia

5%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constant conjunction" is a term predominantly used in philosophical discussions, especially when referring to David Hume's theory of causation. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, particularly in formal and academic contexts. It's crucial to remember that "constant conjunction" describes the observed regularity between events, not necessarily a direct causal link. When writing, be mindful of the potential for confusing correlation with causation. Common contexts include Science, Encyclopedias, and Formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

causal regularity

Refers to the consistent pattern observed in causal relationships.

law-like connection

Suggests a strong, deterministic relationship between events, similar to a natural law.

regular association

Emphasizes the consistent co-occurrence of events without necessarily implying a causal relationship.

invariable succession

Highlights the sequential nature of events, with one event consistently following another.

consistent correlation

Focuses on the statistical relationship between variables, suggesting a pattern of co-occurrence.

systematic relationship

Focuses on an organized and structured connection between events or variables.

repeated co-occurrence

Stresses the frequency with which events happen together.

habitual connection

Implies a learned or customary association between events, often based on experience.

uniform sequence

Highlights the predictability and orderliness of events following one another.

predictable pattern

Emphasizes the ability to anticipate events based on prior observations.

FAQs

How is "constant conjunction" used in philosophy?

In philosophy, "constant conjunction" typically refers to David Hume's theory of causation, where causal relationships are understood as the regular co-occurrence of events, rather than a necessary connection.

What is an example of "constant conjunction"?

An example of "constant conjunction" is observing that fire is always followed by smoke. According to Hume, we infer a causal relationship because of this consistent pairing, not because we perceive any necessary connection.

How does "constant conjunction" relate to causation?

"Constant conjunction" is central to Hume's empiricist account of causation, where our idea of cause and effect arises from the repeated observation of two events occurring together, leading us to expect one after the other. This contrasts with rationalist views that posit a necessary connection.

What are some alternatives to "constant conjunction"?

While "constant conjunction" is specific to Humean philosophy, you can use alternatives like "regular association" or "consistent correlation" in more general contexts to describe events that frequently occur together.