# frequency

/ˈfɹikwənsi/ (US) · /fɹˈiːkwənsi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/frequency
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 2. radio or sound waves

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

the speed at which a sound wave or radio wave vibrates.

For teachers: the number of complete oscillations or cycles per second of a periodic quantity, such as an alternating current or electromagnetic wave.

- The radio station broadcasts on a high frequency that is easy to find.
- The technician adjusted the signal to a different frequency to avoid interference from the neighbouring television transmitter.

Usage: measured in hertz (Hz).

### 3. statistics

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

the total number of times a specific value or event appears in a set of data.

For teachers: the absolute or relative number of occurrences of a particular variant or data point in a statistical population.

- The chart shows the frequency of each answer in the survey.
- The researchers recorded the frequency of specific keywords to determine the most prevalent themes in the interview transcripts.

Usage: often presented in a 'frequency distribution' table or graph.

### 4. a mood or vibe

noun · CEFR C2 · Informal · Slang

a particular feeling, mood, or way of thinking that people share.

For teachers: a metaphorical use referring to a specific emotional or mental state, often implying being 'in tune' with others.

- I feel like we are finally on the same frequency regarding this project.
- It took several meetings, but the creative team is finally operating on the same frequency, leading to much more productive brainstorming sessions.

Teaching tip: This is a figurative extension of the radio wave sense; it is very common in creative or spiritual contexts.

## Examples

- The frequency of trains on this line increases during rush hour.
- Due to the high frequency of accidents at the intersection, the city council decided to install new traffic lights.
- As the patient's condition deteriorated, the frequency of his panic attacks increased, prompting the medical team to adjust his medication dosage immediately.

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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.