Concurrent: Definition and Synonyms
Definition and Part of Speech
Concurrent is primarily used as an adjective and, less commonly, as a noun or verb form (concurrere in Latin means “to run together”). As an adjective, concurrent describes actions, events, or conditions that occur simultaneously or overlap in time. It implies happening at the same moment or during the same period.
Core Synonyms
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simultaneous | Occurring at the exact same time without overlap. | “The simultaneous ringing of all the school bells signaled lunchtime.” | Formal/Academic |
| Coinciding | Happening at or during the same period of time but not necessarily at the very moment. | “Her vacation coincided with her best friend’s wedding plans.” | Casual/Business |
| Parallel | Running alongside and matching another event or process in some way, often used to indicate equivalence rather than temporal overlap. | “The parallel development of technology in both countries was striking.” | Academic/Formal |
| Overlapping | Extending over the same time period but with parts intersecting; indicates sharing elements between concurrent periods/events. | “His work schedule often overlaps with his personal commitments.” | Informal/Business |
Usage Notes
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Simultaneous is a strong synonym for concurrent, particularly in formal and academic writing, to denote events occurring exactly at the same time. It’s ideal when precision about timing is necessary.
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Coinciding carries an implication of planned or unexpected overlap, often used in business contexts or casual conversations. It can indicate not just shared timing but a meaningful relationship between events.
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Parallel might suggest not only concurrent timelines but also similarity in development, progress, or form, making it suitable for academic and analytical discussions.
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Overlapping is frequently used in business settings where there’s a need to discuss the integration of schedules or responsibilities. It implies shared components within time frames that are partially aligned rather than perfectly simultaneous.
Common Pitfalls
One common confusion arises with parallel, which can imply concurrent timing but primarily suggests equivalence or likeness in characteristics, not necessarily shared timelines. Coinciding and overlapping also blur when used interchangeably; coinciding is more about alignment while overlapping emphasizes a physical or temporal intersection.
Final Recap
The key synonyms for concurrent include simultaneous, coinciding, parallel, and overlapping. Each carries nuances that make them suitable for specific contexts—whether it’s the precision of simultaneous, the alignment suggested by coinciding, the equivalence implied by parallel, or the shared elements of overlapping.
To expand your vocabulary effectively, try creating sentences using each synonym in varied contexts. This practice will help solidify understanding and enhance fluency in selecting appropriate terms based on situational requirements. Whether you’re drafting a business proposal or discussing timelines at a social gathering, these synonyms provide precise alternatives to concurrent, enhancing both clarity and impact.