Time: meaning, definitions and examples
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time
[taɪm ]
Definitions
measurement of duration
Time is a measurable period during which an action, process, or condition exists or continues. It is a dimension in which events occur in a sequence.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| time |
Used as a general measurement or point on a clock or calendar.
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| duration |
Refers to the length of time something lasts or continues.
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| period |
Denotes a length of time with a specific start and end, often longer or more significant than 'interval.'
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| interval |
Signifies a specific space of time between two events or points in time.
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Examples of usage
- Time seemed to pass slowly as they waited for the test results.
- She couldn't believe how quickly time had flown by during the party.
point in the past, present, or future
Time can refer to a particular point in the past, present, or future when something happened, is happening, or will happen.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| time |
Use 'time' when referring to the ongoing passage of existence and events. It is a broad term that can refer to days, hours, minutes, or any other segment of temporal measurement.
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| moment |
Use 'moment' to describe a very brief period, usually highlighting its importance or uniqueness. This term often captures something significant or emotional.
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| occasion |
Use 'occasion' when referring to a special event or a specific time when something happens. It often has a formal or celebratory connotation.
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| instance |
Use 'instance' when talking about a specific example or occurrence of something. This word often implies that there are other similar examples.
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Examples of usage
- We had a great time at the beach last summer.
- I'm looking forward to the time when we can all be together again.
plan or schedule
To time something is to plan, schedule, or arrange it to occur at a particular moment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| time |
Use this word when referring to the general concept of time or when discussing specific durations or moments.
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| schedule |
This word is useful when you are arranging specific times for events or activities, often in a formal or structured manner.
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| plan |
Use 'plan' when you are creating a detailed proposal for achieving something in the future, involving steps or actions.
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| arrange |
This word is best used when you are organizing or setting up something, such as an event or meeting.
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Examples of usage
- She timed her arrival at the party perfectly.
- We need to time the release of the product with the holiday season.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'time' comes from the Old English word 'tīma' which means a limited space, particularly in relation to a period.
- The concept has roots in the Latin word 'tempus', which refers to a specified duration.
- Various cultures have developed unique terms for time, with some ancient civilizations having no word for it at all, emphasizing a different relationship with time.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have debated whether time is linear (a straight line) or cyclical (repeating like seasons).
- Some argue that time is an illusion, suggesting that past, present, and future may not be as distinct as we perceive.
- The famous philosopher Immanuel Kant proposed that time is a form of intuition that shapes human experience.
Science
- In physics, time is considered the fourth dimension, intertwined with the three dimensions of space in a concept known as spacetime.
- Albert Einstein's theory of relativity revealed that time can stretch or contract based on speed and gravity – time moves slower for someone traveling near the speed of light compared to someone at rest.
- Every atomic clock uses the vibrations of atoms to measure time, making them incredibly precise.
Psychology
- Studies show that our perception of time can vary based on age, experience, and emotional states, often feeling slower during stressful moments.
- The 'time perception' phenomenon entails how we experience durations differently, where mundane moments can feel longer than exciting ones.
- Memory and time are closely linked; recalling a longer or more complex event can make it feel like it took more time than a simpler, shorter event.
Culture
- Different cultures have unique ways of perceiving and valuing time: some see it as a linear journey, while others view it cyclically.
- In some Indigenous cultures, time is considered more of a shared experience rather than a strict measure, emphasizing relationships and events over punctuality.
- Festivals around the world often celebrate the passage of time, marking transitions such as the New Year or harvest seasons.
Translations
Translations of the word "time" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tempo
🇮🇳 समय
🇩🇪 Zeit
🇮🇩 waktu
🇺🇦 час
🇵🇱 czas
🇯🇵 時間 (じかん)
🇫🇷 temps
🇪🇸 tiempo
🇹🇷 zaman
🇰🇷 시간 (시간)
🇸🇦 وقت
🇨🇿 čas
🇸🇰 čas
🇨🇳 时间 (时间)
🇸🇮 čas
🇮🇸 tími
🇰🇿 уақыт
🇬🇪 დრო
🇦🇿 vaxt
🇲🇽 tiempo