English Reference
noun

timing

n.
US /ˈtaɪmɪŋ/ UK /tˈaɪmɪŋ/ tim·ing UK spelling timings

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the specific time when an event or action occurs.

    the particular time or date at which an event takes place, often in relation to other events.

    Simple

    The timing of the announcement was bad because most people were already on holiday.

    In context

    The timing of the market crash caught many investors off guard, as it occurred just days after the quarterly reports were released.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    the way parts of a machine or engine work together at the right speed.

    the regulation of the speed or synchronization of a mechanism, such as an internal combustion engine.

    Simple

    The mechanic had to adjust the engine's timing to stop it from making a strange noise.

    In context

    Precise ignition timing is critical for maximizing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions in modern high-performance engines.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    the act of measuring how long something takes.

    the act or process of measuring the duration of an event or the time taken to complete a task.

    Simple

    The official was responsible for the timing of each runner in the race.

    In context

    Electronic timing has replaced manual stopwatches in professional swimming to ensure accuracy down to the millisecond.

    measurementchronometry

Maybe my timing was off, because we went into lockdown two days into the filming.

BBC News· 6 Sept 2026

The event will begin at approximately 18:10 BST, although timings will vary depending on location.

BBC News· 12 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated