change of speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "change of speed" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where you want to describe a variation in pace or tempo, such as in driving, sports, or music. For example: "The runner made a sudden change of speed to overtake his competitor." Alternative expressions include "shift in pace" and "alteration in speed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sports

General Contexts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

A change of speed, a change of style.

The Guardian - Books

It's so important at this level to have that change of speed.

The Guardian - Sport

The aircraft was descending steadily, and there had been no abrupt change of speed, altitude or direction.

The Guardian

"But with a screwball, it isn't the break that fools the hitter, it's the change of speed.

The New York Times

The proposed FL control configuration is based on speed error and change of speed error.

Energy Conversion and Management

"Her agility and change of direction and change of speed and control of her body, I liken it to a point guard in basketball," Heinrichs said.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

"He didn't have a good fastball, but he still made the most out of it because of his location and change of speeds.

The New York Times - Sports

"Any time you're able to locate with the change of speeds like he was doing, it's tough to hit," the Royals' Desi Relaford said of Mussina.

The New York Times - Sports

The mastery and consistency -- the location, the change of speeds, the cunning -- that has defined Maddux was not in absolute evidence.

The New York Times - Sports

Phillips scored the Mets' lone run, but Reyes's miscue extinguished hope for a big inning against Liván Hernández, whose change of speeds baffled the young lineup.

The New York Times - Sports

Collins rattled through Marcum's assets: "Great change of speeds, throws strikes, doesn't beat himself, makes them swing the bat".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a strategic maneuver in sports or driving, use "change of speed" to emphasize the deliberate alteration of velocity to gain an advantage.

Common error

Avoid using "change of speed" when a more specific term like 'acceleration' or 'deceleration' is more appropriate to accurately convey the intended meaning. Using precise language improves clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "change of speed" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It describes the act or process of altering velocity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, serving to denote a modification in pace or tempo.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Sports

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "change of speed" is a versatile phrase used to describe any alteration in velocity, whether an increase or decrease. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Its frequency is common, and it appears across various contexts, including news, science, and sports. While general, it effectively conveys the idea of altering pace or tempo. For more precise communication, consider alternatives like "acceleration" or "deceleration". When choosing which phrase to use, consider the specific context to avoid ambiguity and ensure the intended meaning is accurately conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rate of change of velocity

A more technical and precise way to describe the concept.

shift in velocity

Emphasizes the alteration in speed using a more formal term.

fluctuation in speed

Highlights the inconsistency of speed.

variation in pace

Broadens the concept to include non-physical contexts where 'pace' is relevant.

speed modulation

Suggests a controlled or intentional alteration of speed.

acceleration

Focuses specifically on the rate of increase in speed.

deceleration

Highlights the rate of decrease in speed.

tempo change

Specifically applicable in musical contexts.

increase in tempo

Focuses on the action of speed increasing.

decrease in tempo

Focuses on the action of speed decreasing.

FAQs

How can I use "change of speed" in a sentence?

You can use "change of speed" to describe a variation in velocity or pace. For example: "The driver executed a quick "change of speed" to pass the other car".

What are some alternatives to saying "change of speed"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "acceleration", "deceleration", or "shift in velocity".

When is it appropriate to use "change of speed"?

"Change of speed" is suitable when referring to any alteration in velocity, whether increasing or decreasing. It is frequently used in discussing driving, sports, or any situation involving motion. However, if you want to be more specific, you should choose a more fitting alternative, such as acceleration or deceleration.

What's the difference between "change of speed" and "acceleration"?

"Change of speed" is a general term for any variation in velocity, while "acceleration" refers specifically to an increase in speed. "Deceleration" means a reduction in speed. Therefore, "change of speed" encompasses both "acceleration" and "deceleration".