# scheduling

/ˈskɛdʒuɫɪŋ/ (US) · /ʃˈɛdjuːlɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scheduling
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the process of planning

noun · CEFR B1

the act of deciding when events or tasks should happen.

For teachers: the systematic process of arranging events, tasks, or operations to occur at specific times for maximum efficiency.

- Good scheduling is the secret to finishing a big project on time.
- Efficient scheduling in the manufacturing sector ensures that raw materials arrive exactly when the production line is ready for them.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general skill or system.

### 2. a specific plan

noun · CEFR B2

a specific time or arrangement for an event.

For teachers: a specific instance or assignment of an event to a particular time slot.

- We need to check the scheduling for the conference rooms before we book the meeting.
- The manager requested a review of the current schedulings to identify any overlaps in the staff holiday calendar.

### 3. computing

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the way a computer decides which task to work on first.

For teachers: the method by which a system or operating system assigns resources to complete various tasks.

- The computer's scheduling makes sure that your music keeps playing while you browse the web.
- Advanced scheduling algorithms are essential for maintaining system stability when a server handles thousands of simultaneous requests.

Usage: Uncountable in this technical context.

## Examples

- Good scheduling helps us finish our work on time.
- The project manager is responsible for the scheduling of all weekly meetings and deadlines.
- Efficient scheduling requires a delicate balance between available labor hours and the fluctuating demands of the production cycle to avoid costly downtime.

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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.