out of sync with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'out of sync with' is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to describe something that is not in agreement with something else or is not synchronized with something else. For example: The music during the performance was out of sync with the choreography.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Our bodies were out of sync with the earth.

The New York Times - Travel

— that seemed out of sync with voters.

The New York Times

The CPS is just plainly out of sync with reality.

Independent

Which means I'm out of sync with the world now".

Independent

"Tunnell was out of sync with the general norm.

The New York Times - Magazine

In that sense, we're out of sync with the public".

The New York Times

The party platform is out of sync with its nominee.

The New York Times

But this idea may be out of sync with reality.

The New York Times

They were, perhaps, out of sync with the times.

The Guardian - Books

But I feel out of sync with the city.

The New York Times

Current housing prices are completely out of sync with wages.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "out of sync with" to describe situations where elements are not properly coordinated or aligned. It is suitable for both abstract and concrete contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "out of sync with" to describe physical objects that are simply broken or malfunctioning. Reserve it for situations involving timing, coordination, or alignment issues. For instance, rather than saying "The car's engine is out of sync with its wheels" (which is incorrect), you should say "The car's engine is broken"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of sync with" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adjective complement. It describes something as being misaligned, uncoordinated, or not in agreement with something else. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

23%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "out of sync with" is a versatile and frequently used prepositional phrase that indicates a lack of alignment, coordination, or agreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely employed across various contexts, including News & Media and Academia. When using "out of sync with", ensure it accurately reflects a timing, coordination, or alignment issue, avoiding its misuse for describing simply broken objects. Remember that alternatives like "not in harmony with" or "not aligned with" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific context. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively communicate the intended meaning and prevent common errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not in agreement with

Highlights a discrepancy in opinion or stance.

not aligned with

Focuses on a lack of strategic or directional correspondence.

not in step with

Implies a failure to keep pace or conform to a standard.

not in harmony with

Emphasizes a lack of musical or aesthetic agreement.

at variance with

Indicates a contradiction or inconsistency.

incompatible with

Stresses a fundamental inability to coexist or function together.

incongruent with

Emphasizes a lack of consistency or appropriateness.

divergent from

Suggests a departure or deviation from a common path.

at odds with

Suggests a state of conflict or opposition.

disconnected from

Highlights a lack of connection or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "out of sync with" in a sentence?

You can use "out of sync with" to describe anything that isn't aligned, coordinated, or in agreement. For example, "The dancer's movements were "out of sync with" the music", or "His opinions are "out of sync with" the rest of the team's".

What are some alternatives to saying "out of sync with"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "not in harmony with", "not aligned with", or "incompatible with".

Is it better to say "out of sync with" or "out of step with"?

Both phrases are valid, but "out of sync with" often implies a timing or coordination issue, while "out of step with" suggests a difference in opinion or behavior. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean when something is described as being "out of sync with the times"?

When something is "out of sync with the times", it means that it's outdated, irrelevant, or no longer aligns with current trends, values, or technologies.