to be continuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be continuous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing processes, actions, or states that are ongoing or unbroken over time. Example: "The data collection process is designed to be continuous, ensuring that we capture real-time information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It has to be continuous.

The New York Times - Sports

"The game has to be continuous".

The New York Times - Sports

This means testing has to be continuous as well.

The Guardian - Tech

"There has to be continuous follow-up and reinforcement.

The New York Times

Do the two years have to be continuous?

The New York Times

It's just going to be continuous operations".

The New York Times - Magazine

Therefore the 10 years does not need to be continuous.

Nature

They do not even have to be continuous.

Harvard University

I wanted it to be continuous; you could come in and out, just like real life.

The Guardian

For there is a story playing there, in what seem to be continuous performances.

The Guardian - Books

are allowed to be continuous functions of the position.

Composites Part B: Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be continuous", ensure the context clearly indicates what is ongoing or uninterrupted. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the subject or process that is "to be continuous".

Common error

Avoid assuming that "to be continuous" automatically implies indefinite duration. Always clarify the timeframe or conditions under which something is expected "to be continuous" to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be continuous" functions as an infinitive phrase, often serving as a predicate complement or part of a larger verb phrase. Ludwig AI examples show it describing ongoing processes, necessary actions, or expected states.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

37%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be continuous" is a versatile infinitive phrase used to describe processes, actions, or states that must remain uninterrupted. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical structure is correct and its usage is common across various fields like science, news, and academia. While the phrase does not inherently imply indefinite duration, it emphasizes the absence of breaks within a specified or implied timeframe. When using "to be continuous", clarity is key to avoid ambiguity about the subject and duration of the continuity. Remember "to be ongoing", "to remain uninterrupted", and "to proceed without a break" can serve as viable alternatives depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be ongoing

A more general term emphasizing that something is happening right now.

to remain uninterrupted

Focuses on the lack of interruption rather than the continuation itself.

to proceed without a break

Highlights the absence of pauses or interruptions in the process.

to keep going steadily

Emphasizes the stable and consistent nature of the continuation.

to be sustained

Implies that something is maintained at a certain level or intensity.

to flow uninterruptedly

Applies specifically to processes and events that proceed without disruption, emphasizing seamless progress.

to persist without ceasing

Underscores the relentless and unyielding quality of the continuation.

to carry on seamlessly

Highlights the smooth and fluid nature of the continuation, without any noticeable disruption.

to be incessant

Conveys a sense of relentlessness and persistence.

to be perpetual

Suggests that something is never-ending or eternal.

FAQs

How can I use "to be continuous" in a sentence?

Use "to be continuous" to describe processes, actions, or states that are ongoing or unbroken over time. For example, "The monitoring process needs "to be continuous" to ensure accurate data collection."

What are some alternatives to "to be continuous"?

Alternatives include "to be ongoing", "to remain uninterrupted", or "to proceed without a break", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always necessary for something described as "to be continuous" to last indefinitely?

No, "to be continuous" does not necessarily imply indefinite duration. The timeframe can be specified or implied by the context. It simply means there are no breaks within that timeframe.

What is the difference between "to be continuous" and "to be constant"?

"To be continuous" means without interruption, while "to be constant" means unchanging. A process can "to be continuous" but vary in intensity, whereas something that is constant remains the same.