How to say "continually" in Japanese

Choosing the right word
  • 引き続きひきつづきCommon
    adverb, nounFor 'continually' meaning an unbroken continuation of a state or activity — something under way that simply goes on without a break, as when a service or arrangement is carried on as before.
    I will continue with my efforts.
  • 絶えずたえずJLPT N2approx.Common
    adverbFor 'continually' in the sense of 'constantly, without ever stopping': it stresses that something never ceases, fitting states or activities that go on and on with no pause.
    彼かれらは絶たえずけんかばかりしていた。↗
    They were constantly quarreling.
  • 繰り返しくりかえしCommon
    adverbFor 'continually' meaning 'again and again': the emphasis falls on repeated occurrences rather than one unbroken stretch, so it suits actions that happen over and over.
    The telephone rang repeatedly.

Use 「引き続き」 for an unbroken continuation of what is already going on, 「絶えず」 for something that never stops, and 「繰り返し」 when 'continually' really means 'again and again'.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents
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JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

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