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B2 adjective 7 min read

constant(e)

Examples constant(e) in 30 Seconds
Explanation constant(e) in your Level:
At the A1 level, you can think of 'constant' as a word that means 'always the same' or 'all the time.' While you might not use it often in your own speaking yet, you will see it in simple descriptions. For example, if you are talking about the weather, you might say 'la température est constante' to mean it stays at 20 degrees all day. It is an easy word because it looks like the English word 'constant.' Just remember that in French, we change the ending for a girl or a feminine thing. 'Un garçon constant' (a steady boy) but 'une fille constante' (a steady girl). At this stage, focusing on the fact that it describes things that don't change is enough. You might hear it in a classroom when a teacher says 'un effort constant' to encourage you to keep studying every day. It is a positive word when it describes work or friendship, but it can be neutral when describing things like noise or speed. Try to notice it when you read simple texts about science or people's habits. It helps you describe the world as stable and predictable.
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At the A2 level, you should begin to use 'constant' to describe habits and recurring situations. You are moving beyond simple sentences and can now say things like 'Il y a un bruit constant dans la rue' (There is a constant noise in the street). This level is about recognizing that 'constant' is more formal than 'tout le temps.' Instead of saying 'Il pleut tout le temps,' you can say 'La pluie est constante.' This makes your French sound more mature. You should also be careful with the feminine form 'constante.' Practice saying it with the 't' sound at the end. You will also see this word in basic science or math problems in French. A 'valeur constante' is a number that does not change. In daily life, you might use it to describe a friend who is always there for you: 'C'est un ami constant.' This shows you understand the emotional meaning of the word as well. Start pairing it with common nouns like 'bruit' (noise), 'peur' (fear), and 'effort' (effort). This will help you build 'collocations,' which are groups of words that naturally go together in French.
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At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'constant' to describe complex qualities and trends. You should understand that it implies a lack of fluctuation. For instance, in a professional context, you might describe 'une augmentation constante des ventes' (a constant increase in sales). Here, 'constant' adds a layer of professionalism to your description. You can also use it to talk about your own learning process: 'Je fais un effort constant pour améliorer mon français.' This sounds much better than saying 'Je travaille beaucoup.' At B1, you should also be introduced to the adverb 'constamment.' Note the spelling change from 'constant' to 'constamment.' You can use this to modify verbs: 'Il change constamment d'avis' (He is constantly changing his mind). You will encounter 'constant' in newspaper articles and intermediate listening exercises. It often appears in discussions about the environment, economy, or social trends. Understanding the nuance between 'constant' (steady) and 'continu' (unbroken) becomes important here. 'Constant' is about the level or intensity remaining the same, while 'continu' is about the lack of a pause.
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At the B2 level, 'constant' becomes a tool for precise argumentation and technical description. You should be able to use it in academic or professional writing to describe variables, behaviors, and historical trends. For example, you might write about 'la recherche constante de l'innovation' (the constant search for innovation) in a business essay. You are now expected to handle the noun form 'une constante' as well. In an essay, you could say 'L'instabilité politique est une constante dans l'histoire de ce pays' (Political instability is a constant in the history of this country). This use of 'constante' as a noun to mean 'a recurring factor' is very common at this level. You should also be aware of synonyms like 'invariable,' 'permanent,' or 'soutenu' and know when to choose 'constant' over them. For instance, 'un rythme soutenu' implies a fast and steady pace, while 'un rythme constant' simply means the pace doesn't change, whether it's fast or slow. You will also hear 'constant' in more abstract contexts, such as 'une amitié constante' or 'une humeur constante,' where it describes a psychological state of reliability. Your ability to use the word in these varied contexts shows a high level of linguistic flexibility.
At the C1 level, you should master the stylistic and idiomatic uses of 'constant.' You can use it to create emphasis in your speech and writing. For example, 'un souci constant de perfection' (a constant concern for perfection) or 'une présence constante sur les réseaux sociaux' (a constant presence on social media). You should understand its use in formal literature where it can describe the 'constance' (steadfastness) of a hero's soul. At this level, you are expected to distinguish between very similar words like 'perpétuel,' 'incessant,' and 'immuable.' 'Constant' is the most neutral of these; 'perpétuel' suggests something that never ends, 'incessant' often has a negative connotation of being annoying, and 'immuable' suggests something that cannot be changed by any force. You might use 'constant' in a legal or scientific report to describe 'des données constantes' (consistent data). You should also be comfortable with the phrase 'à l'état constant,' which means in a steady state. Your use of 'constant' should reflect a deep understanding of its Latin roots (*constare* - to stand firm), applying it to describe things that are not just unchanging, but firmly established and reliable.
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At the C2 level, 'constant' is used with total precision in the most sophisticated contexts. You can use it in philosophical discourse to discuss the nature of reality, such as 'la seule constante de l'univers est le mouvement.' You are also adept at using it in high-level literary analysis, perhaps discussing 'la constance des thèmes' in an author's work. You understand the subtle difference between 'une constante' in mathematics and 'une constante' in a social science context, where it refers to a recurring phenomenon that defines a system. You can use the word to describe complex human emotions with nuance, such as 'une mélancolie constante mais discrète.' In professional or diplomatic settings, you might use 'constant' to describe a policy or a stance that has remained 'constant' despite external pressures, implying strength and reliability. You are also capable of using the word in wordplay or rhetorical structures, recognizing that its very stability can be used as a contrast to more dynamic descriptions. Your mastery of 'constant' at this level is not just about knowing what it means, but knowing how its presence in a sentence provides a structural anchor of meaning, conveying a sense of permanence and intellectual rigour.
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Examples

constant(e) in 30 Seconds

  • The word 'constant' describes something steady, unchanging, or persistent in frequency and intensity over time in both physical and abstract contexts.
  • It requires gender agreement in French: 'constant' for masculine nouns and 'constante' for feminine nouns, with the latter pronouncing the final 't'.
  • Beyond physical states, it describes character traits like loyalty and perseverance, as well as fixed values in mathematics and scientific formulas.
  • It is commonly used in professional and academic settings to describe trends, such as constant growth or constant pressure, sounding more formal than 'tout le temps'.
The French adjective constant (masculine) and constante (feminine) is a multifaceted word that English speakers will find quite intuitive, yet it carries specific nuances in French that elevate it beyond a simple synonym for 'always.' At its core, it describes something that does not change over time, remaining steady, uniform, or persistent. In a world of fluctuations, la constance is often viewed as a virtue of character or a requirement for scientific accuracy.
Character and Loyalty
When applied to a person, especially in older literary contexts or formal modern French, it refers to someone who is steadfast and faithful. A 'constant friend' is one who never wavers in their support, regardless of the circumstances.
Science and Mathematics
In technical fields, it describes a value that remains fixed. As a noun, 'une constante' is a fixed value in an equation. As an adjective, it describes a 'pression constante' (constant pressure) or a 'température constante'.

Malgré les critiques, il a gardé un enthousiasme constant pour son projet.

La vitesse de la lumière est une valeur constante dans le vide.

Frequency and Persistence
In everyday conversation, it often describes annoying repetitions or persistent states, such as 'un bruit constant' (a constant noise) or 'des plaintes constantes' (constant complaints).

Elle travaille avec un soin constant pour éviter les erreurs.

Leur amitié est restée constante à travers les années.

Le bruit constant de la circulation m'empêche de dormir.

In summary, use this word when you want to convey stability, lack of variation, or a relentless nature. It is more formal than 'tout le temps' and more precise than 'continu'.
Using constant(e) correctly requires an understanding of its placement and agreement. As an adjective, it typically follows the noun it modifies, which is the standard position for most descriptive adjectives in French.
Gender Agreement
For masculine nouns, use 'constant' (the final 't' is silent). For feminine nouns, use 'constante' (the 't' is pronounced because of the final 'e'). Example: 'un effort constant' vs. 'une attention constante'.

Il maintient un rythme constant pendant sa course.

Plural Forms
Simply add an 's' for plural nouns: 'des efforts constants' or 'des évolutions constantes'. The pronunciation for the masculine plural remains the same as the singular.

Nous observons une augmentation constante des températures mondiales.

Adverbial usage
If you want to say 'constantly', use the adverb 'constamment'. This is formed by taking the feminine 'constante', removing the 'e', and adding '-ment', though the spelling shifts to 'constamment' (pronounced 'kon-sta-man').

Le succès demande une vigilance constante de la part des dirigeants.

Ses retards sont devenus un problème constant pour l'équipe.

Elle a une peur constante d'échouer à ses examens.

To master this word, practice pairing it with nouns like 'bruit', 'effort', 'peur', 'température', and 'évolution'.
You will encounter 'constant' in a wide variety of settings, from the evening news to professional environments and scientific journals.
In the News
Journalists often use it to describe trends. 'La hausse constante du prix de l'essence' (The constant rise in gas prices) is a phrase you might hear during a financial report. It implies a steady climb rather than a sudden spike.

Le pays fait face à une menace constante de cyberattaques.

At Work
In performance reviews, a manager might praise an employee for their 'travail constant' (steady work). This suggests reliability and consistency in output. Conversely, 'un besoin constant de supervision' (a constant need for supervision) would be a negative critique.

Votre engagement constant est la clé de notre réussite collective.

L'infirmière vérifie les constantes du patient toutes les heures.

In Literature and Philosophy
Authors use 'constant' to describe unwavering love or enduring traits. In a romantic novel, a character might pledge 'un amour constant', signifying a devotion that withstands the test of time.

La seule chose constante dans la vie est le changement.

Il y a un rappel constant de notre passé dans cette architecture.

La pression atmosphérique est restée constante toute la journée.

Whether in a laboratory, a boardroom, or a lover's letter, 'constant' is the word for things that do not waver.
Even though 'constant' is a cognate, there are several pitfalls for English speakers.
Confusing Adjective and Adverb
English speakers often say 'Il parle constant' when they mean 'He talks constantly'. In French, you must use the adverb 'constamment' to modify a verb. 'Constant' only modifies nouns.

Incorrect: Il se plaint constant. Correct: Il se plaint constamment.

Gender Neglect
Because 'constant' sounds similar to the English word, learners often forget to add the 'e' for feminine nouns. 'Une peur constant' is a common error; it must be 'une peur constante'.

La musique est une source constante de joie pour moi.

Un bruit continu (non-stop) vs Un rythme constant (steady).

Overusing 'Constant'
Beginners often use 'constant' for everything. In French, 'régulier' is often better for habits, and 'fidèle' is better for loyalty. 'Il est constant dans son travail' is good, but 'Il est régulier' is more common for daily habits.

Elle est une lectrice assidue (diligent/constant) de ce journal.

Il maintient une pression constante sur ses adversaires.

Un succès constant n'est jamais garanti.

Avoid these mistakes by remembering that 'constant' is an adjective of quality and state, requiring agreement and proper adverbial transformation.
To sound more like a native, you should know when to use 'constant' and when to pick a more specific alternative.
Constant vs. Permanent
'Permanent' means something that is intended to stay forever, like a 'résidence permanente'. 'Constant' means something that doesn't vary in intensity or frequency right now. A noise can be constant for ten minutes, but it isn't permanent.
Constant vs. Continu
'Continu' describes something without gaps or breaks. 'Constant' describes something that remains at the same level. You can have a 'courant continu' (direct current) that is also 'constant' (same voltage).

L'effort doit être soutenu (sustained) pour porter ses fruits.

Invariable
This is the best word for things that cannot change by nature. Rules are often 'invariables'. 'Constant' is more about the observation of stability.

Il a une humeur égale (even-tempered) en toutes circonstances.

Une surveillance ininterrompue (uninterrupted) est nécessaire.

Il montre une détermination sans faille (unfailing).

La stabilité des prix est un objectif majeur.

By expanding your vocabulary with these synonyms, you can express the idea of 'constancy' with greater precision and emotional weight.
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Examples by Level

1

Le bruit est constant ici.

The noise is constant here.

The adjective 'constant' follows the noun 'bruit'.

2

Il a un travail constant.

He has a steady job.

'Constant' means 'steady' or 'regular' in this context.

3

La température est constante.

The temperature is constant.

Feminine form 'constante' for the feminine noun 'température'.

4

C'est un effort constant.

It is a constant effort.

Masculine singular adjective.

5

Elle est une amie constante.

She is a constant friend.

Feminine form 'constante' used to mean 'faithful'.

6

Le vent est constant.

The wind is constant.

Describes a steady wind without gusts.

7

Il garde un rythme constant.

He keeps a constant rhythm.

'Rythme' is masculine, so 'constant' is used.

8

La pluie est constante aujourd'hui.

The rain is constant today.

Feminine adjective 'constante'.

1

Il y a une peur constante du changement.

There is a constant fear of change.

'Peur' is feminine, so we use 'constante'.

2

Nous observons un progrès constant.

We are observing constant progress.

Masculine singular.

3

Le succès demande une attention constante.

Success requires constant attention.

Feminine adjective.

4

Ses bruits constants m'énervent.

His constant noises annoy me.

Masculine plural 'constants'.

5

Elle a un sourire constant.

She has a constant smile.

Masculine adjective.

6

C'est une valeur constante en maths.

It is a constant value in math.

Scientific usage.

7

Le débit de l'eau est constant.

The water flow is constant.

Masculine adjective.

8

Il reste constant dans ses opinions.

He remains constant in his opinions.

Describes a character trait.

1

L'entreprise connaît une croissance constante.

The company is experiencing constant growth.

Economic context.

2

Il faut une surveillance constante des malades.

Constant monitoring of the sick is necessary.

Medical context.

3

Elle travaille avec une rigueur constante.

She works with constant rigor.

Describes a professional quality.

4

Le bruit constant de la mer est apaisant.

The constant sound of the sea is soothing.

Sensory description.

5

Il y a une demande constante pour ce produit.

There is a constant demand for this product.

Commercial context.

6

Sa motivation est restée constante malgré l'échec.

His motivation remained constant despite the failure.

Psychological context.

7

Le climat change à une vitesse constante.

The climate is changing at a constant speed.

Environmental context.

8

Il a besoin d'un rappel constant des règles.

He needs a constant reminder of the rules.

Educational context.

1

La pression fiscale est une préoccupation constante.

Tax pressure is a constant concern.

Abstract noun phrase.

2

Il maintient une pression constante sur son rival.

He maintains constant pressure on his rival.

Metaphorical use of 'pression'.

3

L'évolution technologique est une constante de notre siècle.

Technological evolution is a constant of our century.

Noun usage 'une constante'.

4

On note des plaintes constantes concernant le service.

Constant complaints regarding the service are noted.

Plural feminine 'constantes'.

5

Le débit internet doit être constant pour le streaming.

The internet speed must be constant for streaming.

Technical requirement.

6

Elle a fait preuve d'une loyauté constante.

She demonstrated constant loyalty.

Formal character description.

7

Le niveau sonore est maintenu à un seuil constant.

The sound level is maintained at a constant threshold.

Passive voice structure.

8

L'inflation est restée constante ce trimestre.

Inflation remained constant this quarter.

Financial reporting.

1

La recherche de la vérité est une quête constante.

The search for truth is a constant quest.

High-level abstract thought.

2

Il agit avec un souci constant de l'intérêt général.

He acts with a constant concern for the general interest.

Political/Ethical context.

3

La constance de son engagement force l'admiration.

The constancy of his commitment commands admiration.

Noun form 'constance'.

4

Les paramètres doivent rester constants durant l'expérience.

The parameters must remain constant during the experiment.

Scientific plural 'constants'.

5

Elle vit dans un état de remise en question constante.

She lives in a state of constant self-questioning.

Psychological nuance.

6

Il y a une interaction constante entre l'homme et la nature.

There is a constant interaction between man and nature.

Sociological/Ecological context.

7

Le style de l'auteur est marqué par une ironie constante.

The author's style is marked by constant irony.

Literary criticism.

8

Nous devons assurer un flux constant d'informations.

We must ensure a constant flow of information.

Corporate/Communications context.

1

L'immuabilité n'est qu'une illusion face au changement constant.

Immutability is but an illusion in the face of constant change.

Philosophical paradox.

2

Sa prose se distingue par une élégance constante et sobre.

His prose is distinguished by a constant and sober elegance.

Aesthetic analysis.

3

Le droit doit s'adapter aux réalités constantes de la société.

Law must adapt to the constant realities of society.

Legal philosophy.

4

Une volonté constante de dépassement anime ce chercheur.

A constant will to surpass oneself drives this researcher.

Motivation/Drive.

5

On observe une corrélation constante entre ces deux variables.

A constant correlation is observed between these two variables.

Statistical precision.

6

Le maintien de la paix exige une vigilance constante et accrue.

Maintaining peace requires constant and increased vigilance.

Geopolitical context.

7

L'œuvre de Proust explore la recherche constante du temps perdu.

Proust's work explores the constant search for lost time.

High literary reference.

8

La stabilité macroéconomique repose sur des constantes structurelles.

Macroeconomic stability relies on structural constants.

Advanced economic theory.

Common Collocations

Effort constant
Bruit constant
Attention constante
Température constante
Vitesse constante
Croissance constante
Pression constante
Soutien constant
Évolution constante
Rappel constant

Common Phrases

Demeurer constant

— To remain unchanged or steady over time. Used for feelings or qualities.

Ses sentiments sont demeurés constants.

Rester constant

— To stay the same, often used for values or physical states.

Le prix doit rester constant.

Une hausse constante

— A steady increase that does not fluctuate. Common in news reports.

On note une hausse constante des prix.

Un souci constant

— A preoccupation that is always present in one's mind.

La sécurité est son souci constant.

Une recherche constante

— A continuous quest or search for something, like truth or beauty.

C'est une recherche constante de perfection.

En constante progression

— In a state of steady improvement or advancement.

Ses résultats sont en constante progression.

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Related Content

This Word in Other Languages

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