noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

timing

TEYE-mihng

Timing (noun) means the choice of when to do something, especially in relation to its effect. Example: “His timing was perfect — he arrived just as the show began.”

noun

The choice of when to do something, especially in relation to its effect.

"His timing was perfect — he arrived just as the show began."

The regulation of pace or rhythm in an activity, such as an engine or a joke.

"Good comic timing is what made the routine funny."

How to Use Timing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe sense of when to do something, or how well-paced an action or event is.

Common pairings

good timing bad timing comic timing

Word Forms

timings plural

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His _____ was perfect — he arrived just as the show began.

Synonyms

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pacing rhythm tempo synchronization cadence

Related Words

rate speed pace rhythm pulse coordination stepping metre

Rhymes for timing

aiming chiming claiming exclaiming Reclaiming proclaiming

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “timing” mean?

The word “timing” means the choice of when to do something, especially in relation to its effect. In plain terms, the sense of when to do something, or how well-paced an action or event is.

How do you pronounce “timing”?

“Timing” is pronounced TEYE-mihng (/ˈtaɪmɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “timing” in a sentence?

Here is “timing” used in a sentence: “His timing was perfect — he arrived just as the show began.”

What part of speech is “timing”?

“Timing” is a noun.

Is “timing” a common word?

“Timing” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “timing” have?

“Timing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the choice of when to do something, especially in relation to its effect.

What is the difference between "timing" and "time"?

"Time" is the general concept or a specific point or duration, while "timing" is the choice of when to do something in relation to its effect. You might have plenty of time to act, yet still have poor timing if you act at the wrong moment.

What is the difference between "good timing" and "bad timing"?

Both phrases describe the choice of when something happens in relation to its effect. "Good timing" means acting at the most favourable moment, while "bad timing" means acting at an unfortunate or inconvenient one.

How is "timing" used when talking about engines or machinery?

In machinery, "timing" refers to the regulation of the pace or rhythm of moving parts, such as when an engine's valves open and close relative to the pistons. Correct timing keeps the components working in the right sequence.

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