# sync

/ˈsɪŋk/ (US) · /sˈɪŋk/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. to match data or timing

verb · CEFR B2 · Informal

to make two or more things happen at the same time or have the same information.

For teachers: to synchronize data, settings, or timing across multiple devices or platforms to ensure consistency.

- I need to sync my phone with my laptop to get my new photos.
- The application will automatically sync your progress across all registered devices whenever a stable internet connection is detected.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'with'.

### 2. working together perfectly

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

the state of two things matching or working together at the same time.

For teachers: the state of synchronization or harmony between two or more elements.

- The sound and the video were out of sync during the movie.
- The marketing and sales departments need to be in sync if the product launch is to be successful.

Usage: Commonly found in the fixed phrases 'in sync' or 'out of sync'.

### 3. music for video

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical · Informal

a license that allows a song to be used in a movie, show, or advertisement.

For teachers: a music synchronization license permitting the use of a composition in timed relation with visual media.

- The band made more money from the commercial sync than from record sales.
- Securing a high-profile sync in a popular streaming series can significantly boost an independent artist's monthly listeners.

Teaching tip: This is industry jargon used by professionals in the music and film business.

## Examples

- I need to sync my phone with my laptop to save my photos.
- The software allows the team to sync their calendars so everyone knows when the next meeting starts.
- The dancers spent weeks practicing to sync their movements with the complex rhythmic shifts of the orchestral score.

---

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.