ENGLISH
REFERENCE

timing

n.
US //ˈtaɪmɪŋ// UK //tˈaɪmɪŋ// tim·ing
  1. 1 the time something happens (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

  2. 2 mechanical synchronization (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

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  1. 3 recording the time (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

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