ENGLISH
REFERENCE

pace

n. · v. · prep.
US //ˈpeɪs// pace
  1. 1 speed of movement (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the speed at which someone walks, runs, or moves.

    the rate of speed at which an individual walks, runs, or moves.

    Example

    We walked at a fast pace to reach the station before the train left.

    Example

    The marathon runner maintained a steady pace for the first twenty miles, conserving energy for a final sprint toward the finish line.
  2. 2 rate of progress (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the speed at which something happens or develops.

    the speed at which an activity or process unfolds or develops.

    Example

    The pace of modern life can be very stressful for some people.

    Example

    Technological innovation is moving at such a relentless pace that regulatory frameworks often struggle to remain relevant.
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  1. 3 a single step (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a single step taken when walking.

    a single step in walking or running, often used as a rough unit of measurement for distance.

    Example

    He took a few paces toward the window to get a better view.

    Example

    The duellists were instructed to stand back-to-back and walk ten paces before turning to face one another.
  2. 4 to walk nervously (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to walk back and forth in a small area, often because you are worried or waiting.

    to walk with regular steps back and forth across a limited area, typically as an expression of anxiety or deep thought.

    Example

    She paced the hospital waiting room while she waited for news.

    Example

    The expectant father paced the length of the corridor, his footsteps echoing rhythmically against the linoleum floor.
  3. 5 to control speed (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to do something at a steady speed so you do not get tired too quickly.

    to regulate the speed of an activity or oneself to ensure consistent progress or to avoid premature exhaustion.

    Example

    You need to pace yourself during the long hike so you have energy for the climb.

    Example

    The experienced cyclist knew how to pace her ascent, ensuring she didn't deplete her oxygen reserves before reaching the summit.
  4. 6 respectful disagreement (prep.)
    C2 Proficiency Formal Academic

    a very formal way to say 'with respect to' when you disagree with someone.

    used to express polite or respectful disagreement with a person or their opinion.

    Example

    Pace the professor, I believe the data suggests a different conclusion.

    Example

    Pace the eminent historian, recent archaeological findings suggest that the fortification was actually constructed several decades later than previously assumed.

    Usage

    Usually placed at the beginning of a clause or phrase, followed by the name of the person being disagreed with.
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