Synchronous
SING-kruh-nuhs
/ˈsɪŋkrənəs/
Existing or occurring at the same time; operating or progressing in unison.
Emphasizes simultaneity and coordination, especially in technical contexts like data transmission or communication.
The story behind the word. The word 'synchronous' comes from the Greek 'syn-' meaning 'together' or 'with', and 'chronos' meaning 'time'. So, 'synchronous' literally means 'together in time' or 'at the same time'. This perfectly describes events or processes that are coordinated to happen simultaneously.
Word relationships
- Simultaneous: Occurring at the same time, but doesn't necessarily imply coordination or a shared timing mechanism.
- Concurrent: Happening or existing at the same time, often used in computing for tasks running in parallel.
- Coordinated: Arranged or organized to work together effectively.
- Asynchronous: Not existing or occurring at the same time; independent of a common time signal.
- Sequential: Following a particular order.
Commonly confused with
- Simultaneous: 'Synchronous' implies a shared timing mechanism or intentional coordination; 'simultaneous' just means 'at the same time'.
Word family
- synchronize (verb): To cause to occur or operate at the same time or rate.
- synchronization (noun): The act of synchronizing.
Collocations
- synchronous communication
- synchronous learning
- synchronous data transfer
- synchronous motor
Example sentences
- "`Synchronous` communication, like a live video call, requires all participants to be present at the same time." In digital communication.
- "Many programming tasks are `synchronous`, meaning one operation must complete before the next one begins." In computer science.
- "The online course offered both `synchronous` live lectures and `asynchronous` recorded materials." In education.
Memory hook
Think of `syn` (together) and `chron` (time). `Synchronous` means `together in time`. Together in time
When not to use
Do not use 'synchronous' if events happen at different times or independently; 'simultaneous' is a more general synonym, but 'synchronous' implies a planned or designed coordination.
Fun facts
- The word 'chronometer' (a precise timepiece) also shares the 'chronos' root.
- In music, 'synchronous' might refer to instruments playing in perfect time with each other.
Related words
Explore more words
simultaneous, unison, concurrent, concurrence, contemporary, tandem
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