continental
3 synonyms and 2 antonyms for continental, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Relating to a continent, especially mainland Europe as distinct from Britain.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
characteristic of the style of continental Europe'
Antonyms
intercontinental
antonym(s) of
How to use continental
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
continental breakfast
continental Europe
continental shelf
Etymology
From continent + the adjective-forming suffix -al.
Full origin of continental →Frequently asked questions
What does “continental” mean?
The word “continental” means relating to a continent, especially mainland Europe as distinct from Britain. In plain terms, relating to a continent — in British usage, often specifically meaning "mainland Europe.".
How do you pronounce “continental”?
“Continental” is pronounced kon-tih-NEHNTL (/ˌkɑntɪˈnɛntl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “continental” in a sentence?
Here is “continental” used in a sentence: “They spent the summer touring continental Europe.”
What is another word for “continental”?
Words with a similar meaning to “continental” include characteristic of the style of continental Europe'.
What is the opposite of “continental”?
The opposite of “continental” — its antonyms — is antonym(s) of.
What part of speech is “continental”?
“Continental” is an adjective.
Is “continental” a common word?
“Continental” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “continental” have?
“Continental” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to a continent, especially mainland Europe as distinct from Britain.
What is the difference between a continental breakfast and a full English breakfast?
A continental breakfast is a light, typically cold meal in the style of mainland Europe: bread, pastries, jam, fruit, and coffee or tea. A full English breakfast is a cooked meal, usually featuring items such as eggs, bacon, and sausages. The name "continental" reflects the traditional contrast between mainland Europe and Britain.
Is Britain part of continental Europe?
No. Britain is part of Europe, but "continental Europe" (or "the Continent") refers to the European mainland as distinct from Britain and other islands. That contrast is exactly what the adjective continental captures in British English.
What is the difference between continental and intercontinental?
Continental means relating to a single continent or large landmass, as in a continental climate. Intercontinental means between or connecting two or more continents, as in an intercontinental flight. The prefix inter- supplies the "between" meaning.
