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"Permanent" vs. "eternal": a linguistic exploration of time's boundaries

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem 08/10/2024, 04:31

English.me team member

Permanent and eternal. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "permanent" and "eternal" refer to concepts of lasting duration. They are often used to describe things that are meant to endure and not change over time.

What is different?

"Permanent" typically refers to something that is meant to last indefinitely or for a very long time but can have an end. "Eternal", on the other hand, implies a state of being without beginning or end, often used in philosophical or religious contexts to denote timelessness.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for permanent) and eternal

Examples of usage

Permanent

The marker left a permanent stain on the table.
She received a permanent position at the company.

Eternal

The ancient philosophers pondered the concept of eternal truth.
He believed in an eternal life after death.

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