permanent

Everyday

1. Lasting for ever or for a very long time; not changing: «a permanent marker». tree →
2. (of a job or home) Lasting with no planned end: «a permanent job». tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and school: a permanent marker does not wash off, so don't use it on the whiteboard. In science: «permanent changes» (irreversible changes), like burning or cooking an egg, cannot be undone. In health: adult teeth are «permanent teeth». Phrases: «permanent marker», «permanent teeth», «permanent change», «permanent home». Opposite: temporary.

Examples

• Don't use a permanent marker on the whiteboard! tree →
• Burning paper is a permanent change. tree →
• Your adult teeth are permanent, so look after them. tree →
• The kitten found a permanent home. tree →
• The ink stain looks permanent. tree →
• Is the new teacher permanent or just for this term? tree →
• And both crows bowed and asked for a permanent appointment, for they thought of their old age. tree →

Note

Spelling: «-ent», not «-ant» — a common trap. Adverb: permanently. Opposite: temporary. A tattoo is permanent; most stickers are temporary.