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Trace Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trace

[treษชs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

digital

A function that records the steps taken by a program while it is running, often used for debugging purposes.

Synonyms

log, record, track.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trace

Used again toward following the path or steps of something, similar to the first entry 'trace'.

  • The archaeologists traced the ancient ruins to a lost civilization.
record

Used when you want to capture and store information or data, often in a more formal or official capacity. Can refer to audio, video, or written documentation.

  • The meeting was recorded for those who couldn't attend.
  • She holds the record for the fastest marathon time.
track

Used when you want to monitor or follow the progress or location of something over time. It can be related to various contexts such as shipments, movements, or progress.

  • Use this app to track your daily steps.
  • The company tracks all customer orders until delivery.
log

Used when you need to systematically record data or entries, often in a written or digital format. Common in contexts like computers, ships, or work activities.

  • I logged my workout routine in the new app.
  • The ship's captain keeps a detailed log of the journey.

Examples of usage

  • The developer used a trace to identify the bug in the code.
  • The trace helped pinpoint the exact line causing the error.
Context #2 | Noun

investigation

A mark or a series of marks left by the passage of someone or something.

Synonyms

evidence, indication, sign.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trace

Used when referring to a very small amount or a slight mark indicating something was present.

  • There was a trace of lipstick on the glass.
  • The detective found a trace of blood at the crime scene.
sign

Commonly used to refer to an indication or symbol that something exists, is happening, or is true; often used in daily conversation.

  • Dark clouds are a sign of an approaching storm.
  • Yawning can be a sign that someone is tired.
indication

Best used when referring to a sign or piece of information that suggests something might be true but isn't definite.

  • High fever can be an indication of an infection.
  • The early sunset was an indication that winter was approaching.
evidence

Utilized in legal or formal contexts to refer to information or objects that help to prove whether something is true or false.

  • The lawyer presented new evidence in court.
  • We found clear evidence of water damage in the basement.

Examples of usage

  • The detective found traces of blood at the crime scene.
  • There were traces of the suspect's DNA on the weapon.
Context #3 | Verb

follow

To find or discover by investigation or searching.

Synonyms

locate, pursue, track.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trace

Used to describe finding the origins or course of something. Often used in scientific, historical, or detective work to describe finding the source or development of an item or information.

  • The detective was able to trace the call to an abandoned house.
  • Scientists can trace the origins of the virus to a specific region.
track

Used for following the signs or trail left by someone or something. Often used when talking about monitoring the movement or progress of people, animals, vehicles or objects.

  • The hunter was able to track the deer through the forest.
  • The logistics company can track the package throughout its delivery route.
pursue

Used when describing the act of chasing someone or something over a period of time. This word often carries a sense of determination and can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.

  • The police officers decided to pursue the suspect on foot.
  • She chose to pursue a career in medicine.
locate

Used for identifying the exact position of a person or object. Often used in everyday situations, emergency services, or navigation.

  • After hours of searching, we finally managed to locate the missing keys.
  • The rescue team was able to locate the stranded hiker using GPS coordinates.

Examples of usage

  • The police traced the stolen car to a chop shop.
  • She traced her family history back to the 18th century.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'trace'

The word 'trace' originated from the Middle English 'tracen', which came from the Old French 'tracer', meaning 'to follow a trail'. The concept of tracing has been integral to human history, from tracking animals for hunting to investigating crimes. Over time, 'trace' has evolved to encompass a variety of meanings, reflecting its importance in understanding paths, origins, and connections.

See also: retrace, traceable, traces, tracing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,059, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.