synchronize

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'synchronize' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to something being coordinated or adjusted in time with something else. Example sentence: We had to synchronize our schedules so that we both had time off.

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Before a day's work, or rushes, are viewed it is usual to synchronize those takes that were shot with dialogue or other major sounds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A newer version of the clapper is a digital slate that uses light-emitting diodes and an audio link to synchronize film and tape.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is evidence that these fundamental biological functions can synchronize with the rhythmic phases of environmental (exogenous) change.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In a long poem, Fianna bátar in Emain ("The Warriors Who Were in Emain"), Cináed ua Artacáin summed up the saga material, while Fland Mainistrech collected the work of generations of fili who had laboured to synchronize Ireland's history with that of the outside world.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Company engineers flew around the world with its cesium beam HP 5060A instrument to synchronize the globe's atomic clocks to within one-millionth of a second.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Alex Greilich and colleagues at the University of Dortmund, Ger., used a train of light pulses to synchronize the spins.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Early versions of Polaroid 3-D used two interlocked projectors to synchronize the two pictures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bats also presumably use vision to distinguish day from night and to synchronize their internal clocks with the local cycle of daylight and darkness.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1982 the United States adopted an approach known as AirLand Battle, which emphasized maneuver and the need to see the battlefield in the round, taking advantage of emerging military technologies to synchronize operations and direct fire with greater accuracy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The 13 inlays mentioned above represent the 12 months of the year and the intercalary month added every few years to synchronize the lunar calendar with the solar calendar.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Thus, most musical numbers are filmed to synchronize with a playback track.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In creative writing, consider using "synchronize" to describe characters' actions or thoughts aligning in meaningful ways, adding depth to the narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "synchronize" when describing processes that are inherently asynchronous or operate independently. Use terms like "coordinate" or "integrate" instead to better reflect the relationship.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "synchronize" is as a transitive verb, indicating an action performed on an object to bring it into temporal or operational alignment. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "synchronize" is a versatile verb used to describe the act of coordinating events, processes, or data to occur at the same time or rate. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across diverse contexts. Its usage spans from technical domains to general communication, highlighting its flexibility. While "synchronize" and "synchronise" are both correct, the former is favored in American English, as stated by Ludwig. When writing, consider the specific nuances of related terms like "coordinate" and "harmonize" to ensure the most accurate expression. In summary, understanding its correct usage and potential alternatives ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

synchronise

A British English spelling variant of "synchronize".

coordinate

Focuses on aligning actions or processes to work together effectively, broader than just timing.

harmonize

Emphasizes creating agreement or accord, often used in contexts involving music or relationships.

align

Highlights the act of bringing into agreement or correspondence, suitable for abstract concepts.

calibrate

Refers to adjusting instruments or systems to ensure accuracy and precision.

attune

Implies bringing into harmony or responsiveness, often in a subtle or nuanced way.

mesh

To come together or coordinate, often implying a close and harmonious fit.

regulate

To control or maintain the rate or speed of something so that it operates properly.

contemporize

Emphasizes making something current or modern, relating to time but with a different focus.

match

To be equal to or consistent with, can apply to timing but is more general.

FAQs

How do I use "synchronize" in a sentence?

You can use "synchronize" to describe coordinating events, like "We need to synchronize our calendars". It can also describe technical processes, such as "The software will synchronize your files across devices".

What can I say instead of "synchronize"?

Alternatives to "synchronize" include "coordinate", "harmonize", or "align", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "synchronize" or "synchronise"?

"Synchronize" and "synchronise" are both correct, but "synchronize" is the preferred spelling in American English, while "synchronise" is more common in British English.

What's the difference between "synchronize" and "coordinate"?

"Synchronize" specifically refers to making things happen at the same time or rate, whereas "coordinate" is a broader term that means organizing different elements to work together effectively, not necessarily simultaneously.