Common Errors Grammar Tip 11

Continuous versus continual

Which sentences are correct?

1. He continuously checked his watch.
2. He continually checked his watch.

3. We continuously update our records.
4. We continually update our records.

5. The river flows continuously.
6. The river flows continually.

7. I continuously lose my keys.
8. I continually lose my keys.

9. I worked continuously for 12 hours.
10. I worked continually for 12 hours.

The correct sentences are B, D, E, H, and I.

Why?

The term continuous means “unceasing” or “without interruption.” The term continual means “over and over again” or “on an ongoing basis.”

Determining which word to use can be tricky, such as with sentence C/D.

In these cases, ask yourself if the action:

• either continues without interruption → continuously
• or is regularly repeated → continually

Which sentences are correct?

11. Dolphins continuously breathe air at the surface.
12. Dolphins continually breathe air at the surface.

13. The cycle of life is continuous.
14. The cycle of life is continual.

The correct sentences are L and M.

Why?

Dolphins do not remain at the surface. They take long breaks between breaths to swim under water. And the cycle of life continues without interruption.

Now you know!