B2adverb2K

Constantly

UK /["/ˈkɒnstəntli/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːnstəntli/"]/

Definition

all the time; repeatedly

In simple words: always happening without stopping

Examples

  • Fashion is **constantly changing**.
  • I am **constantly reminded** how fortunate I am.
  • We are constantly looking for ways to improve our products.
  • We are constantly on the lookout for new ideas.
  • Heat the sauce, stirring constantly.
  • You have to be constantly aware of your surroundings when walking home late at night.

Usage notes

Use 'constantly' in neutral contexts to describe actions that occur regularly or continuously. It's suitable for both spoken and written English but avoid in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

constantly + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'constant' as something that never changes; 'constantly' is like that but for actions.

Collocations

  • constantly improving
  • constantly changing
  • constantly worried
  • constantly moving

Synonyms

  • continually
  • perpetually
  • incessantly
  • repeatedly
  • ceaselessly

Antonyms

  • occasionally
  • seldom
  • rarely

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'constantly' with 'frequently', which implies less regularity.
  • Using it to describe a one-time action, like 'I constantly finished my homework yesterday.'
  • Incorrectly placing it at the end of a sentence for emphasis.