Meaning of Word
Pace refers to the speed or rate at which something occurs, moves, or is done. It can also refer to the steps or strides taken while walking, as well as the rhythm or tempo of activities.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Rate of movement or progress – The speed at which something happens, such as a process or an event.
- Stride or step – The length or manner of walking or running, often referred to as the pace of someone’s movement.
- Rhythm or tempo – The consistent speed at which something is done, particularly in relation to activities like work, music, or sports.
- A steady rhythm – A controlled or measured rate of progression, often used in reference to activities like running, writing, or working.
History and Origin
The word “pace” comes from the Latin word “passus,” meaning a step or a stride. The term evolved through Old French into Middle English, initially used to refer to the steps or rhythm of walking. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the speed or rate of progress in various contexts, such as work, travel, or even events.
Detailed Explanation
Pace refers to how fast or slow something moves or progresses. It can be used to describe:
- Physical movement: Referring to the steps someone takes when walking or running, such as “He increased his pace during the race.”
- Speed of progress: Referring to how quickly something develops, such as “The pace of technological advancement is rapid.”
- Rhythm or tempo of work: The rate at which tasks are completed, like “The project is moving at a steady pace.”
- Figurative use: Describing the intensity or speed of activities in various situations, for example, “The pace of life in the city is fast.”
The pace can be adjusted depending on goals, energy, or external circumstances, such as in a race, a business deadline, or a casual walk.
Example Sentences
- He walked at a brisk pace to catch the bus.
- The pace of the meeting slowed as more questions were asked.
- She maintained a steady pace throughout the marathon.
- The pace of technological change has increased dramatically in recent years.
- We need to pick up the pace if we want to finish the project on time.
- The fast pace of city life can be overwhelming for some people.
- At a slow pace, he completed the task with great care.
- The pace of the music was perfect for the ballroom dance.
- They struggled to keep pace with the rapid changes in the market.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Speed – The rate at which something moves or happens, similar to pace.
- Tempo – The speed or rhythm of an activity, often used in music or tasks, related to pace.
- Rate – The speed or level of progress or activity, similar to pace.
- Stride – The manner of walking or running, referring to the steps taken, related to pace.
- Velocity – A scientific term for speed in a particular direction, closely tied to the idea of pace.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Rhythm – The pattern or flow of events or movements, similar to pace in the context of activities.
- Cadence – A rhythmic flow or sequence of steps or sounds, related to pace in walking or music.
- Momentum – The force gained by a moving object, sometimes linked to the pace at which it moves.
- Gait – The way in which someone walks, directly related to the pace of their steps.
- Timing – The coordination of actions or events, connected to the pace of execution.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Pace yourself – To regulate one’s speed or energy to avoid exhaustion, often used in physical tasks.
- Pace of life – The general speed or rhythm at which life or activities are conducted in a particular environment.
- Fast pace – A high rate of speed or rapid progress in an activity or event.
- Slow pace – A leisurely or unhurried speed in movement or progress.
- Pace setter – A person or thing that establishes the standard or speed for others to follow, often used in races or business contexts.
Antonyms
- Slow – Moving or progressing at a reduced speed, the opposite of pace when referring to speed.
- Halt – To stop completely, the opposite of maintaining a pace or continuous movement.
- Lethargic – Moving or working at a very slow and sluggish pace, the opposite of being energetic.
- Pause – To stop temporarily, which contrasts with maintaining a steady pace.
- Drag – To move slowly or with effort, the opposite of maintaining a smooth pace.
