noun

continuance

kun-TIN-yoo-uns/kənˈtɪnjuəns/

The continuation or extension of something over time.

The continuance moves the court hearing to a date two weeks later.

An active court hearing is put over to a later date: beside the paused proceeding, a court clerk transfers its distinctive case marker from an earlier calendar date to a date two weeks later.

Etymology

Continuance first meant a keeping up or going on. In its legal use, a proceeding is carried forward to a later date, so continuing it takes the form of postponement.

In context

The Explainer Office15:44

Judges consider the impact of a continuance on the court's calendar and may deny requests that would cause significant disruption. Parties should be mindful of the court's workload when requesting a delay

What Is a Continuance (and When Can You Ask)?

More examples

Both sides agree to the continuance of peace talks.
The scholarship's continuance requires steady academic progress.
They question the continuance of a policy that no longer works.

Forms

continuance

continue verb — To keep happening or doing something.

Similar words

continuation: More common for something carrying on or starting again.
persistence: Suggests lasting despite resistance or attempts to stop it.
extension: Emphasizes making something last longer than originally planned.