What does synchronism mean?
Synchronism is a formal noun meaning the fact of two or more things happening at the same time. It is particularly useful when discussing history, chronology, science, or the relationship between separate events. For example, a historian might describe the synchronism of two political upheavals across different countries, or a researcher might examine the synchronism between a signal and an observed response. The word emphasizes simultaneity rather than causation: it can identify events that coincide without implying that one caused the other. In contemporary general usage, synchronicity is often more familiar, but it may also suggest a meaningful or mysterious correspondence. Synchronism, by contrast, is more technical and neutral. Its uncommon character makes it especially appropriate for precise analysis of timing and parallel development.
nounThe fact of two or more events, actions, or developments occurring at the same time. In historical or scholarly writing, it can also refer to the simultaneous occurrence of related events.
- The occurrence of two or more events, actions, or developments at the same time.
- In historical writing, the simultaneous occurrence of related events or phases in different places.
"The apparent synchronism between the two developments was more coincidental than causal."
"The synchronism of the two revolutions remains a striking feature of the period."
"The recordings showed no synchronism between the musical performance and the ambient sound."
Plural forms are uncommon because the word is normally used in the singular for a pattern or instance of simultaneous occurrence.
"The historian identified several synchronisms between the two accounts."
Synchronism names the moment when separate histories overlap in time.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does synchronism come from?
Synchronism comes through Latin from Greek synchronos, a word formed from syn- and chronos, meaning “together” and “time.” The Greek adjective referred to things happening simultaneously. Its development into English follows the broader family of synchronize, synchronous, and synchronization, all based on the idea of events sharing the same time or occurring in step.
Related word forms
How synchronism is actually used
Synchronism is formal and relatively uncommon in everyday speech. It is especially associated with historical, scientific, and scholarly discussion.
Easily confused with synchronism
Synchronism refers to events occurring at the same time, whereas synchronicity can refer more broadly to simultaneous occurrence and, in modern usage, to meaningful coincidence or alignment.