Understanding “Concurrently”: Definition and Synonyms
Concurrently – Definition and Part of Speech
The word concurrently is primarily used as an adverb, meaning it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to indicate that actions occur at the same time. It emphasizes simultaneity in processes or events, often suggesting they are happening together without one preceding the other.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
Below is a table of main synonyms for “concurrently,” detailing their nuances and examples of usage across different styles and contexts:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simultaneously | Highlights that actions occur at the exact same time | “The clocks were set simultaneously to ensure accuracy.” | Formal, Academic |
| At the same time | Emphasizes co-occurrence without precision about simultaneity | “She was able to watch TV and study at the same time.” | Informal, Casual |
| Together | Suggests actions or events happening in conjunction | “The two departments worked together to launch the product.” | Business, Cooperative |
| In parallel | Often used for processes occurring alongside one another | “Development teams were working on different features in parallel.” | Technical/Professional |
Usage Notes
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Simultaneously: This synonym is most suitable in academic writing or formal contexts where precision about timing is important. It implies a high degree of simultaneity.
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Example: In scientific research, experiments may be conducted simultaneously to compare results under identical conditions.
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At the same time: This phrase fits more casual conversations and everyday contexts. It doesn’t demand exact synchrony but indicates co-occurrence.
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Example: “He managed to finish his homework at the same time as watching a movie.”
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Together: Best used in business or cooperative settings, this synonym conveys unity or joint efforts rather than strict timing.
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Example: Teams often come together for brainstorming sessions.
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In parallel: Commonly found in technical, professional, and development contexts. It describes processes running side-by-side without interference.
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Example: Software updates are tested in parallel to ensure stability.
Common Pitfalls
A common mistake is confusing “concurrently” with terms that imply causality or sequence rather than simultaneity, such as “subsequently” or “thereafter.” Ensuring clarity of meaning helps avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, while “in parallel” might seem like a direct synonym, its use is more appropriate in technical contexts and may not always fit casual conversation.
Final Recap
In summary, concurrently and its synonyms offer nuanced ways to express actions occurring simultaneously. Depending on context—be it formal academic writing or informal conversations—you can choose “simultaneously,” “at the same time,” “together,” or “in parallel” to convey precise meanings:
- Simultaneously: High precision, suitable for academic contexts.
- At the same time: Casual and flexible for everyday use.
- Together: Emphasizes unity, ideal for cooperative scenarios.
- In parallel: Technical term, perfect for describing processes running alongside one another.
To expand your vocabulary effectively, try using these synonyms in different sentences or conversations. Practicing their contextual usage will deepen your understanding of each word’s subtleties and enhance your communication skills.