microsecond: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “microsecond” mean?
One millionth of a second (10⁻⁶ seconds).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
One millionth of a second (10⁻⁶ seconds).
An extremely short unit of time, used to measure very fast processes in science, computing, and engineering.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No differences in definition or usage. Spelling is identical. Pronunciation has minor phonetic variation.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both dialects.
Frequency
Equally common in technical contexts in both regions. Rare in everyday speech.
Grammar
How to Use “microsecond” in a Sentence
[Number] + microsecond(s)a + fraction/quantifier + microsecond(s)microsecond + noun (e.g., microsecond delay)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “microsecond” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The device requires microsecond timing.
- We observed a microsecond-scale event.
American English
- The system has microsecond accuracy.
- It was a microsecond pulse of light.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in high-frequency trading contexts.
Academic
Common in physics, engineering, computer science, and electronics papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used; 'split second' is preferred.
Technical
Standard unit for measuring signal processing, circuit speeds, laser pulses, and network latency.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “microsecond”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “microsecond”
- Mispronouncing the first syllable as 'mee-cro' instead of 'my-cro'.
- Confusing 'micro-' (10⁻⁶) with 'milli-' (10⁻³).
- Using it figuratively in general conversation, which sounds unnatural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, a microsecond is one thousand times shorter than a millisecond. There are 1,000 microseconds in one millisecond.
It's highly unusual and technical. In everyday speech, use phrases like 'split second', 'in a flash', or 'instant' instead.
The standard symbol is μs, where 'μ' is the Greek letter 'mu' representing 'micro-'.
It's most common in physics, electrical engineering, computer science, telecommunications, and any field involving high-speed measurements or processes.
One millionth of a second (10⁻⁶ seconds).
Microsecond is usually technical / scientific in register.
Microsecond: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmaɪ.krəʊˌsek.ənd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmaɪ.kroʊˌsek.ənd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'micro-' as 'very small' and 'second' as time. A microsecond is to a second what a single grain of sand is to a full hourglass.
Conceptual Metaphor
TIME IS A MEASURABLE RESOURCE / EXTREME SPEED IS A FRACTION OF A SECOND.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the correct definition of a microsecond?