Times Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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times
[taɪmz ]
Definitions
measurement
A unit of time equal to the period of one rotation of the earth on its axis, or 24 hours.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| times |
Used for referring to general periods or frequencies. Suitable when talking about how often something happens or specific events in history.
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| hour |
Suitable for indicating a specific length of time lasting 60 minutes. Commonly used to plan or describe events of short duration within a day.
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| day |
Appropriate for referring to a 24-hour period, typically from midnight to midnight, or the period when it is light outside. Often used when planning daily activities or referring to specific days.
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| moment |
Best used for very short, precise instances in time. Useful when highlighting the importance or suddenness of an event or experience.
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Examples of usage
- The clock shows the current time as 10:30 PM.
- The train is scheduled to arrive at 3:45 PM.
- She wakes up every morning at the same time.
occurrence
A particular moment in the continuum of time.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| times |
Replicated entry. Generally used to refer to the circumstances or conditions during a particular phase. Do not repeat. |
| moment |
Refers to a very short period of time, often used to highlight specific, brief occurrences or experiences.
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| period |
Describes a length of time with specific boundaries, often used in academic, historical, or formal contexts.
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| era |
Used to denote a long and distinct period of history with specific characteristics or events. Often implies a significant or influential phase in history.
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Examples of usage
- It was a time of great change in the country.
- She remembered the good times they had together.
- We are living in uncertain times.
measure
To measure the time taken by a process or activity.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| times |
Used to refer to the number of occurrences or instances something happens.
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| measure |
Used to determine the size, amount, or degree of something typically using an instrument or device.
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| record |
Used to save information about something officially for future reference or to capture data.
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| clock |
Used to refer to a device that shows the time or to measure the time it takes to do something.
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Examples of usage
- He timed his run to see if he could beat his previous record.
- She timed the cooking of the meal perfectly.
- They timed the presentation to fit within the allocated slot.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'time' comes from the Old English 'tima' meaning a limited period, showing that we have understood time for many centuries.
- In ancient civilizations, people used natural events, like the movement of the sun, to measure time long before clocks were invented.
- The concept of measuring time shifted from a cyclical view, like seasons, to a linear perspective with the introduction of mechanical clocks.
Science
- In physics, time is a dimension, similar to space, essential for understanding phenomena like motion and relativity.
- Albert Einstein's theory of relativity transformed our understanding of time, showing it can stretch or contract based on speed and gravity.
- Quantum mechanics introduces the idea that time may not be as straightforward as we perceive, with some theories suggesting time could be an illusion.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have various perspectives on time; for example, some societies view it linearly while others see it cyclically, emphasizing seasonal themes.
- In mythology, time is often personified; the Greek god Chronos is depicted as an old man representing the relentless passage of time.
- Various calendars around the world, such as the lunar and Gregorian calendars, showcase how different societies organize and understand time.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Doctor Who' and 'Back to the Future' explore time travel, captivating audiences with the possibilities of moving across time.
- The phrase 'Time flies' is a common expression, used in songs and quotes, illustrating how quickly moments can pass.
- Time is a central theme in literature, often symbolized as a river or a moving train, reminding us of its constant flow and change.
Psychology
- Perception of time can change based on age and experiences; children often feel time goes slowly, while adults feel it speeds up.
- Psychologists study how our perception of time can affect our mood and decision-making, such as stress making time feel slower.
- The experience of 'time poverty' is common in our fast-paced world, where individuals feel they lack enough time for vital activities or rest.
Origin of 'times'
The word 'times' has its origin in Old English, where it was originally spelled as 'tīma'. It has evolved over the centuries to its current form. The concept of time has always been essential to human existence, guiding activities and organizing life. The measurement of time has been a fundamental aspect of various civilizations throughout history, leading to the development of calendars, clocks, and other timekeeping devices.
See also: overtime, sometimes, time, timeframe, timekeeper, timeless, timeline, timeliness, timely, timepiece, timer, timetable, timetabling, timeworn, timing, untimely.