Understanding the Continuum of Things

The continuum is a range or series in which no part is quite distinct but in which there are distinctly defined extremes. It can apply to anything from musical styles to human life stages to crime severity.

It’s one thing to know that there are definite extremes on the continuum, and it’s another to be able to identify where you fall within that range. It’s why it’s important to have a good understanding of the content area standards, assignments and examinations you encounter in school.

The article below offers a few examples of the continuum in action that you might find in textbooks, assignments, or examinations. These samples have been programmatically compiled from online sources and do not represent the opinions of Merriam-Webster or its editors.

The four basic parenting styles tend to be on a continuum between those who are heavy on discipline and those who take a more child-centered approach. Likewise, there is a continuum between elite runners who have slow-twitch muscles and those who have fast-twitch muscles. It’s important to understand where you fall on that continuum, and what your next steps should be. Then you can make informed decisions about your education, career and lifestyle.