permanence: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal to neutral. Common in academic, philosophical, business, and literary contexts.
Quick answer
What does “permanence” mean?
The state or quality of lasting or remaining unchanged indefinitely.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The state or quality of lasting or remaining unchanged indefinitely.
A sense of stability, continuity, and endurance in a world of change. Can refer to physical objects, relationships, ideas, or institutions that endure.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation follow standard regional patterns.
Connotations
Equally formal/conceptual in both varieties.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both varieties, slightly higher in written than spoken registers.
Grammar
How to Use “permanence” in a Sentence
the permanence of [abstract noun]give/lend/add (a sense of) permanence toseek/desire/lack permanenceVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “permanence” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The treaty will permanently alter the borders.
- The dye is designed to permanently colour the fabric.
American English
- The decision will permanently affect our operations.
- They permanently installed the new equipment.
adverb
British English
- The gallery has closed permanently.
- I have permanently moved to Edinburgh.
American English
- The store is permanently closed.
- He is permanently stationed overseas.
adjective
British English
- They are looking for a permanent residence.
- He suffered permanent damage to his hearing.
American English
- She was offered a permanent position at the firm.
- The accident left a permanent scar.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Discussing the permanence of a new company policy or a structural change.
Academic
Analyzing the permanence of social institutions or philosophical concepts.
Everyday
Talking about the desire for permanence in a job or a home.
Technical
In physics/chemistry, referring to the permanence of a magnetic field or a chemical change.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “permanence”
Strong
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “permanence”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “permanence”
- Misspelling as 'permanance'. Using it as an adjective ('a permanence solution' is wrong; use 'permanent').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. 'Permanence' stresses lasting indefinitely, often in a practical or observable sense. 'Eternity' implies infinite, endless time, often with a metaphysical or religious connotation.
Yes, it often has positive connotations of stability, reliability, and security (e.g., 'the permanence of their love'). However, it can be negative if associated with stagnation or unwanted, unchanging situations.
Using it as an adjective (e.g., 'a permanence job'). The correct adjective is 'permanent'. Also, a common spelling error is 'permanance'.
No, there is no direct verb. Related verbs are 'perpetuate', 'endure', or 'last'. The adjective is 'permanent' and the adverb is 'permanently'.
The state or quality of lasting or remaining unchanged indefinitely.
Permanence is usually formal to neutral. common in academic, philosophical, business, and literary contexts. in register.
Permanence: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpɜːmənəns/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpɝːmənəns/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Nothing has the permanence of change. (proverbial)”
- “an illusion of permanence”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a PERMANent marker – its ink is designed for PERMANENCE, it lasts.
Conceptual Metaphor
PERMANENCE IS SOLIDITY / FOUNDATION (e.g., 'a relationship built on a solid foundation of trust'). IMPERMANENCE IS FLUIDITY / FLOW.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'permanence' LEAST likely to be used?