Exploring the Meaning of Contiguous
This video explores the word ‘contiguous’, its definition, synonyms, antonyms, and proper usage. It provides examples to help understand the concept of things that are touching or adjacent without any space in between.
Imagine walking down a street and noticing that all the houses are touching each other, with no gaps between them.
This is a perfect example of something being contiguous. Today, we’re exploring the word contiguous, a term you might encounter in your GRE preparation.
Word type: Contiguous is an adjective. It’s pronounced as kun-TIG-yoo-us.
Meaning: Contiguous describes things that are touching, adjacent, or sharing a common border.
It refers to objects or areas that are next to each other without any space in between.
Word history: The word contiguous comes from the Latin word contiguus, meaning touching or bordering.
It entered the English language in the early fifteenth century, derived from the Latin root tangere, which means to touch.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for contiguous include adjacent, adjoining, neighboring, and abutting. These words all describe things that are close to or touching each other.
Antonyms: On the other hand, antonyms for contiguous include separate, disconnected, detached, and distant.
These words describe things that are not touching or are far apart from each other.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at some examples to better understand how to use contiguous in context.
The United States consists of forty eight contiguous states, plus Alaska and Hawaii. The realtor showed us two contiguous properties that could be combined into one large estate.
In biology, contiguous genes are located next to each other on a chromosome. Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing contiguous with continuous.
While contiguous means touching or adjacent, continuous means uninterrupted or ongoing. For example, a continuous sound plays without stopping, while contiguous sounds would be distinct sounds that occur right after each other.
Understanding the word contiguous can help you describe spatial relationships more precisely. Whether you’re discussing geography, property boundaries, or even abstract concepts, this word allows you to convey the idea of things being in direct contact or close proximity.
As you prepare for the GRE, remember that contiguous is not just about physical touch, but can also apply to more abstract concepts, like ideas or time periods that are directly connected.
Keep practicing with this word, and soon you’ll find it becoming a natural part of your vocabulary.
