kontinum

Kontinum is a term used in Indonesian, Malay, and some other languages to denote a continuum—that is, a continuous sequence or range without gaps. In mathematical use, a continuum refers to a connected, unbroken set that can be measured along a real-valued parameter. The real numbers form a canonical example of a continuum; more generally, a topological continuum is a compact, connected metric space. The concept underpins the idea that many quantities can be treated as having values across an uncountable spectrum rather than in discrete steps.

In science and philosophy, the notion of a continuum appears across various disciplines. In physics, space and time are often modeled as continua on macroscopic scales, enabling calculus-based descriptions of motion and change. Some theories of quantum gravity, however, explore the possibility that space-time may be discrete at the smallest scales. In philosophy and cognitive science, debates about continuity versus discreteness address whether fundamental entities, processes, or experiences are continuous or composed of indivisible parts.

In everyday use and the social sciences, kontinum is common for describing a spectrum or gradation. Examples include a continuum of opinions, colors, intensities, or other qualitative or quantitative attributes. The term highlights the idea that many phenomena do not occur in isolated categories but along a gradual, uninterrupted range.