# bandwidth

/ˈbændwɪdθ/ (US) · /bˈændwɪdθ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bandwidth
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Senses

### 1. internet speed

noun · CEFR B2

the amount of information that can be sent over a connection in a certain amount of time.

For teachers: the transmission capacity of a computer network or communication channel, typically measured in bits per second.

- Streaming high-quality video requires a lot of bandwidth, so the movie kept pausing.
- The office upgraded its fibre-optic connection to ensure sufficient bandwidth for the entire team to participate in video conferences simultaneously.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to general capacity.

### 2. mental energy or time

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

the mental energy, time, or ability you have to deal with a situation.

For teachers: the cognitive or emotional capacity required to handle a task or process information.

- I would love to help you with the project, but I just don't have the bandwidth right now.
- The manager realised that the team lacked the emotional bandwidth to take on another high-stress client before the current quarter ended.

Teaching tip: This is a very common corporate metaphor; learners should use it to describe being too busy or overwhelmed to think about something new.

### 3. radio frequencies

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the range of frequencies used for a radio or electrical signal.

For teachers: the difference between the upper and lower frequencies in a continuous band of frequencies, typically measured in hertz.

- The radio station was granted a specific bandwidth to prevent interference with other channels.
- The technical specifications require a minimum bandwidth of 20 MHz to maintain signal integrity across the wireless link.

## Examples

- I don't have the bandwidth to start a new project this week.
- The manager asked if anyone had the bandwidth to help with the client presentation before Friday's deadline.
- While the proposal is intellectually stimulating, the current restructuring has left the department with very little bandwidth for experimental ventures that do not offer immediate returns.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.