selective synchronization: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Formal to Neutral
Quick answer
What does “selective synchronization” mean?
The process of choosing specific items, files, or data to be kept identical across multiple devices or platforms, while excluding others.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The process of choosing specific items, files, or data to be kept identical across multiple devices or platforms, while excluding others.
A feature or mode in software, cloud services, or systems that allows users to define precise criteria for which content is automatically updated and matched between locations, offering control over data flow and storage.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant semantic difference. Spelling follows national conventions: 'synchronisation' (UK) vs. 'synchronization' (US).
Connotations
Identical in technical and practical connotations.
Frequency
Equally frequent in technical IT and computing contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “selective synchronization” in a Sentence
[Subject] uses/employs selective synchronization [for/of Object][Software] offers/provides selective synchronization [between/with Location]To [verb phrase], enable selective synchronization.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “selective synchronization” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The software allows you to selectively synchronise folders based on file type.
- I need to selectively synchronise my thesis documents between devices.
American English
- The app lets you selectively synchronize photos by album.
- You can selectively synchronize your contacts to the cloud.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Crucial for managing corporate data across employee devices, ensuring only work-relevant files are synced to company clouds.
Academic
Used when researchers sync specific datasets or literature folders between a lab computer and a personal laptop.
Everyday
Commonly referenced by users managing phone photos, music libraries, or document folders with limited cloud storage.
Technical
A core feature in backup software, version control systems (like Git for specific branches), and cloud storage clients (Dropbox, OneDrive).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “selective synchronization”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “selective synchronization”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “selective synchronization”
- Misspelling 'synchronization' (e.g., 'synchronisation' in US English).
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I will selective synchronize my files' is incorrect; correct: 'I will use selective synchronization on my files').
- Confusing with 'backup'—synchronization implies ongoing, bidirectional consistency, not just a one-time copy.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Backup creates a separate copy for recovery. Selective synchronization maintains identical, current versions of chosen files in two or more locations. A backup can be a one-way copy, while sync is typically bidirectional.
Yes, that is a common use case. For example, you could sync documents to your laptop and tablet, but only sync photos to your desktop and cloud, excluding the tablet.
It can, depending on settings. If you remove a folder from selective sync on a device, it may delete the local copy but typically keeps it in the primary source/cloud. Always check the software's behavior.
This creates a 'sync conflict.' Most systems will flag the conflict, save both versions, and ask you to choose which to keep. Selective synchronization doesn't prevent conflicts; it just controls which files participate in the sync process.
The process of choosing specific items, files, or data to be kept identical across multiple devices or platforms, while excluding others.
Selective synchronization is usually formal to neutral in register.
Selective synchronization: in British English it is pronounced /sɪˌlɛktɪv ˌsɪŋkrənaɪˈzeɪʃən/, and in American English it is pronounced /səˈlɛktɪv ˌsɪŋkrənəˈzeɪʃən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not applicable for this technical compound.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a selective bouncer at a club ('selective') who only lets identical twins ('synchronization') enter if they match the guest list criteria.
Conceptual Metaphor
DATA IS A LIBRARY; Selective synchronization is a librarian who only reshelves specific, chosen books to their counterpart branches.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary benefit of selective synchronization?