Translation guide
The English word "constant" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: describing something that happens continuously, something that stays the same, and a fixed value in math or science. It also touches on the idea of loyalty or faithfulness.
Describing an action, state, or event that occurs repeatedly or without stopping.
An adjective meaning 'incessant' or 'unceasing'. Used for things that continue without pause, like noise, rain, or effort.
I couldn't sleep because of the constant noise.
A phrase meaning 'incessant' or 'nonstop', often used for things like phone calls, visitors, or questions. Slightly colloquial.
The constant phone calls are keeping me from getting work done.
A grammar pattern meaning 'always doing ~' or 'doing nothing but ~'. It implies the action is constant and often excessive.
He's constantly complaining.
A loanword from English, used as a na-adjective. Common in business or technical contexts to mean 'steady' or 'constant', but less natural in everyday speech.
Constant effort is necessary.
Describing a state, quality, or condition that does not vary over time.
A na-adjective meaning 'fixed', 'constant', or 'uniform'. Used for things like temperature, speed, or rules that don't change.
This room is kept at a constant temperature.
The negative form of 変わる (to change), meaning 'unchanging' or 'constant'. It's a simple, common way to express that something remains the same.
His love is constant.
A more formal or literary term meaning 'eternal' or 'immutable'. Often used in philosophical or scientific contexts.
Pursue constant truth.
Referring to a number or quantity that does not change, such as in an equation or physical law.
Describing a person who is steadfast in support or affection.
A na-adjective meaning 'faithful' or 'loyal'. Used for people, but also for things like translations or reproductions.
He is a constant friend.
A slightly literary version of 変わらない, often used in set phrases like 変わらぬ愛 (unchanging love).
I'm grateful for your constant friendship.
English often uses 'constantly' as an adverb (e.g., 'He is constantly late'). In Japanese, it's more natural to use phrases like いつも (always), しょっちゅう (frequently), or the pattern 〜てばかりいる rather than trying to directly translate 'constantly'.
He is constantly late.
She calls me constantly.
Find the constant in this equation.