What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
discontinuous
Example
The company experienced discontinuous growth due to various economic factors. [discontinuous: adjective]
Example
The power supply was discontinuous, causing frequent disruptions. [discontinuous: adjective]
intermittent
Example
The car had an intermittent problem with the engine, which made it difficult to diagnose. [intermittent: adjective]
Example
The rain was intermittent throughout the day, making it difficult to plan outdoor activities. [intermittent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intermittent is more commonly used than discontinuous in everyday language. Intermittent is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while discontinuous is less common and typically used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between discontinuous and intermittent?
Discontinuous is more formal than intermittent. It is often used in technical or scientific writing, while intermittent can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
