Timing: meaning, definitions and examples

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timing

 

[ˈtaɪmɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

measurement

The choice, judgment, or control of when something should be done; the ability to choose or decide when something will happen.

Synonyms

coordination, schedule, sequence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
timing

Use this term when talking about when something happens, especially in relation to other events or the best moment to do something. It's often about being strategic and precise.

  • The timing of her arrival was perfect.
  • Good timing is crucial for a successful surprise party.
schedule

A schedule is a plan that lists times at which tasks or events are intended to happen. It's often used in both personal and professional settings to manage time and deadlines.

  • I keep a daily schedule to stay organized.
  • The train schedule shows the departure times of all trains.
sequence

Use this word when discussing the order in which things happen or should happen. It's about arranging events in a specific order, often logically or chronologically.

  • The sequence of events leading up to the accident was unclear.
  • He explained the sequence of steps needed to complete the experiment.
coordination

This term is useful when discussing the organization of people or activities so that something can be done efficiently and effectively. It often involves multiple elements working together smoothly.

  • Proper coordination among team members is essential for project success.
  • The coordination between the dancers was impressive.

Examples of usage

  • The timing of the announcement was crucial for our marketing strategy.
  • Her impeccable timing always impresses the audience.
Context #2 | Noun

music

The choice of the best moment for doing or saying something in order to achieve the desired effect; the time at which a particular note should be played in a piece of music.

Synonyms

beat, rhythm, tempo.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
timing

Used to refer to the precise moment something happens or how well-controlled the sequence of events is.

  • His timing was perfect; he caught the ball just as it was about to hit the ground.
  • Good timing is essential for comedians when delivering punchlines.
rhythm

Used to talk about the patterned flow of sound or movement, which could be in music, speech, or daily activities.

  • The rhythm of the poem made it enjoyable to read.
  • The drummer kept the rhythm steady throughout the performance.
tempo

Used specifically to describe the speed at which a piece of music is played.

  • The tempo of the song gradually increased, making it more exciting.
  • This piece is meant to be played at a slow tempo.
beat

Used to describe the regular pulsation or measure in music. It can also refer to the rhythm of anything repetitive.

  • The song has a fast beat that makes you want to dance.
  • She tapped her foot to the beat of the music.

Examples of usage

  • His impeccable timing as a musician always brings out the emotions in his audience.
  • The timing of the guitar solo was perfect in that song.
Context #3 | Noun

sports

The skill or action of controlling the timing of movements or actions in a particular activity or sport.

Synonyms

coordination, execution, precision.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
timing

Used when talking about the specific moment or overall timeframe something happens. Often important in time-sensitive situations or events.

  • The timing of the meeting was perfect, right after the lunch break.
  • Good timing is crucial when catching a train.
precision

Refers to the accuracy and exactness of an action, measurement, or detail. Often important in technical or detailed work.

  • The surgeon’s precision was critical during the delicate procedure.
  • Precision in coding can prevent many software bugs.
coordination

Refers to the organization of different elements working together smoothly. Often used in teamwork or when multiple tasks need to be synchronized.

  • Effective coordination between the team members ensured the project's success.
  • The coordination between the musicians was impeccable during their performance.
execution

Used when talking about the process of carrying out a plan or task. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the success of the action.

  • The execution of the business strategy was flawless.
  • Poor execution of the project led to its failure.

Examples of usage

  • Her impeccable timing in tennis allows her to anticipate her opponent's moves.
  • The key to success in this sport is perfect timing.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'timing' comes from the root 'time', which has origins in Old English, meaning a measured interval.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the late 19th century, evolving to describe the act of measuring or determining time.

Science

  • In physics, timing is crucial for experiments, where events must be monitored accurately to gather reliable data.
  • In the animal kingdom, timing in mating rituals can significantly affect reproductive success, showcasing the importance of synchronization.

Psychology

  • Research shows that optimal timing in decision-making can enhance cognitive functioning and improve outcomes.
  • The concept of 'timing' in psychology often relates to our understanding of the ‘right moment’ for taking action or making decisions.

Sports

  • In sports like baseball and tennis, perfect timing when hitting a ball can determine success or failure.
  • Olympic athletes often train for years to master the timing of their movements for peak performance during competitions.

Music

  • In music, timing refers to the precise placement of beats and rhythms, critical for a cohesive performance.
  • Composers often use timing to create tension and release in musical pieces, influencing how the audience feels.

Translations

Translations of the word "timing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sincronização

🇮🇳 समय निर्धारण

🇩🇪 Timing

🇮🇩 penjadwalan

🇺🇦 таймінг

🇵🇱 synchronizacja

🇯🇵 タイミング

🇫🇷 synchronisation

🇪🇸 sincronización

🇹🇷 zamanlama

🇰🇷 타이밍

🇸🇦 توقيت

🇨🇿 časování

🇸🇰 časovanie

🇨🇳 定时

🇸🇮 časovna uskladitev

🇮🇸 tímasetning

🇰🇿 уақыт белгілеу

🇬🇪 დროის განსაზღვრა

🇦🇿 vaxtlama

🇲🇽 sincronización

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,087 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.