exists on a continuum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exists on a continuum" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe situations or topics that have a range of complexity, intensity, or variation. For example, "The level of difficulty in math courses exists on a continuum, ranging from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Collaboration exists on a continuum; with no communication between professionals at one end, moving to referrals with limited communication and ultimately to service integration at the other [ 27, 28].

BMC Family Practice

Mental health exists on a continuum.

The New York Times - Health

Normal, healthy sexuality exists on a continuum.

The New York Times - Style

"I've come to see Tourette's as something that exists on a continuum," says Lethem.

The Guardian - Books

To queer theorists, sexuality exists on a continuum, with fluid categories and shifting boundaries.

The Guardian

But he pointed out that all art exists on a continuum of borrowing.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

It should also acknowledge that Islamic art, far from ending in the 18th century, is alive and well; its past and present exist on a continuum, one illuminating the other.

The New York Times - Arts

Depending upon where it is detonated it could kill as many as 6 million people, in one of the world's most populous cities. Weapons exist on a continuum.

The New York Times

Both types exist on a continuum of innovation possibilities that differ in how closely they resemble the existing product.

Forbes

The problems of prejudice exist on a continuum.

The Guardian - Opinion

And historic representations can exist on a continuum.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exists on a continuum", ensure the range or spectrum you are referring to is clearly defined for your audience. This helps avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid presenting the continuum as merely two extremes; acknowledge the nuances and gradations that exist between the end points to provide a more accurate representation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exists on a continuum" primarily functions as a descriptive element within a sentence. It clarifies that a particular characteristic, condition, or concept is not binary but rather present in varying degrees. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exists on a continuum" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe concepts that vary in degree rather than being strictly binary. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. It's commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, reflecting its utility in conveying nuanced perspectives. When employing this phrase, ensure the continuum is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "lies on a spectrum" or "falls within a range" can be used for variety. Remember to avoid oversimplifying the continuum by acknowledging the gradations between extremes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lies on a spectrum

Replaces "exists" with "lies", emphasizing placement along a range.

falls within a range

Focuses on the inclusion within a defined scope.

is part of a gradient

Highlights a gradual change across the scale.

is situated along a sliding scale

Emphasizes variable positioning.

is located on a progressive scale

Points to methodical progression and orderly arrangement.

is arrayed along a spectrum

Highlights an arranged display across a spectrum.

is distributed across a scale

Emphasizes allocation along a measured progression.

varies by degree

Focuses on the degree of variation present.

manifests across a range

Indicates display across a spectrum of possibilities.

is a spectrum-based phenomenon

Identifies the subject as an occurrence that varies across a defined range.

FAQs

How do I use "exists on a continuum" in a sentence?

Use "exists on a continuum" to describe concepts that aren't all-or-nothing but rather vary in degree. For example, "The severity of symptoms "exists on a continuum", from mild discomfort to debilitating pain."

What can I say instead of "exists on a continuum"?

You can use alternatives like "lies on a spectrum", "falls within a range", or "is part of a gradient" depending on the specific context.

What does it mean when something "exists on a continuum"?

It means that the thing in question isn't a binary or all-or-nothing concept but rather has varying degrees or stages. It implies a range or spectrum of possibilities.

Is it appropriate to use "exists on a continuum" in formal writing?

Yes, "exists on a continuum" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic, scientific, and professional contexts where nuanced descriptions are necessary. However, ensure clarity in defining the continuum's parameters.