B2noun1K

Timing

UK /["/ˈtaɪmɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈtaɪmɪŋ/"]/

Definition

the act of choosing when something happens; a particular point or period of time when something happens or is planned

In simple words: The choice or control of when something happens.

Examples

  • The timing of the decision was a complete surprise.
  • Please check your flight timings carefully.
  • He knew the timing was right for a comeback.
  • The timing of the meeting is not convenient.
  • There is disagreement within the government over the exact timing of the referendum.
  • Using press releases to good effect is a matter of timing.
  • the unfortunate timing of the announcement
  • an actor with a great sense of **comic timing**
  • Your timing is perfect. I was just about to call you.
  • She played the piano confidently but her timing was not good.

Usage notes

Use 'timing' when discussing when an event occurs or needs to happen. It's appropriate in both casual and professional settings, but avoid it in overly informal contexts.

Grammar pattern

timing + object

Memory hint

Think of a clock's hands moving — they show timing.

Collocations

  • exact
  • precise
  • convenient
  • have
  • with… timing
  • get the timing right
  • get the timing wrong
  • a matter of timing
  • exact
  • precise
  • convenient
  • have
  • with… timing
  • get the timing right
  • get the timing wrong
  • a matter of timing

Synonyms

  • scheduling
  • coordination
  • synchronicity
  • timeliness
  • punctuality

Antonyms

  • delay
  • lateness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'time' as a noun or verb.
  • Using 'timing' as a countable noun incorrectly.
  • Mixing up 'timing' with unrelated concepts like 'duration'.