Consecutive

Definition

Consecutive refers to things that follow each other in uninterrupted sequence or in logical order, such as events, numbers, or time periods.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈsɛkjʊtɪv/
• Respelling: kuhn-SEK-yoo-tiv

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈsɛkjʊtɪv/
• Respelling: kuhn-SEK-yoo-tiv

Etymology

The word "consecutive" comes from the Latin "consecutivus," meaning "following closely" or "resulting from." It was derived from the Latin verb "consequi" (to follow closely) and entered the English language in the late 17th century.

Derivatives

• Consecutively (adverb)
• Consecution (noun)
• Nonconsecutive (adjective)
• Consecutiveness (noun)
• Consecutiveness (noun)

Synonyms

• Successive
• Sequential
• Uninterrupted

Antonyms

• Nonsequential
• Interrupted
• Discontinuous

Usage

The adjective "consecutive" is used to describe events or items that occur one after the other without interruption. For example, "He won three consecutive championships," or "They worked for five consecutive days without a break." It emphasizes an unbroken, continuous sequence.

Related Terms

• Sequence: A particular order in which related events or things follow each other.
• Succession: The process of following in order or sequence.
• Continuity: The unbroken and consistent existence of something over time.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Following one after the other in an unbroken sequence: Refers to things occurring in succession without any gaps or interruptions.
  • Example: "The team won four consecutive games."
• Following in logical sequence: Refers to events or ideas that proceed in a clear, ordered progression.
  • Example: "The chapters of the book are arranged in a consecutive manner."