What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consecutive
Example
The team won five consecutive games in a row. [consecutive: adjective]
Example
She has been absent from work for three consecutive days. [consecutive: adjective]
sequential
Example
The instructions must be followed in sequential order. [sequential: adjective]
Example
The book is organized into sequential chapters. [sequential: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Consecutive is more commonly used than sequential in everyday language, as it can be used in a wider range of contexts. However, sequential is more commonly used in technical or academic contexts where a specific order or sequence is important.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between consecutive and sequential?
Both consecutive and sequential are relatively formal words, but sequential may be slightly more formal due to its technical and academic usage.