What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
timing
Example
The timing of the fireworks display was perfect. [timing: noun]
Example
She has impeccable timing when it comes to telling jokes. [timing: noun]
Example
He adjusted the timing of the engine to improve its performance. [timing: noun]
pacing
Example
The pacing of the movie was slow in the beginning but picked up towards the end. [pacing: noun]
Example
She had to adjust her pacing during the marathon to avoid exhaustion. [pacing: noun]
Example
He paced back and forth in the waiting room, anxious for news. [paced: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Timing is more commonly used than pacing in everyday language, especially in technical or mechanical contexts. Pacing is more specialized and is often used in creative or performance contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between timing and pacing?
Both timing and pacing can be used in formal and informal contexts, but timing may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, while pacing may be more commonly used in artistic or literary contexts.
