English Lexicon

Discontinuity

/ˌdɪs.kənˈtɪn.juː.ɪ.ti/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A lack of continuity; an interruption in the flow or sequence of something.

    "The discontinuity in the data set made it difficult to draw accurate conclusions."
  2. 2

    A distinct break or gap in a physical or conceptual continuum.

    "The archaeologists noted a discontinuity in the layers of soil, indicating a significant event in the area's history."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'discontinuity' originates from the Latin 'discontinuus', meaning 'not continuous', which evolved through Middle English. The prefix 'dis-' indicates negation, while 'continuity' derives from 'continuare', meaning 'to continue'. The word has been used in various contexts, including mathematics and philosophy, to denote breaks or interruptions in a sequence or process.

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