time code: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical
Quick answer
What does “time code” mean?
A sequence of numeric codes generated at regular intervals to identify specific points in time, primarily used for synchronization in audio, video, or other media.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A sequence of numeric codes generated at regular intervals to identify specific points in time, primarily used for synchronization in audio, video, or other media.
In broader technical contexts, any system where time is encoded for synchronization, logging, or identification purposes in fields like broadcasting, film editing, or data acquisition.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning; slight variation in hyphenation preferences, with British English more likely to use 'time-code' and American English 'timecode'.
Connotations
Neutral technical term without regional connotations.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties within relevant industries like media production and broadcasting.
Grammar
How to Use “time code” in a Sentence
time code for [purpose]time code in [media]add time code to [footage]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “time code” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We must time-code the documentary before the edit suite session.
American English
- Let's timecode the footage to align with the audio track.
adjective
British English
- The time-coded sequences were exported for review.
American English
- The time coded video files are stored on the server.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In media companies, time code is crucial for editing and archiving video content efficiently.
Academic
Research in film studies often examines the role of time code in post-production workflows.
Everyday
Rarely used in casual conversation; typically mentioned when discussing video editing or broadcasting.
Technical
Essential in broadcasting and film editing for ensuring precise synchronization between audio and video tracks.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “time code”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “time code”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “time code”
- Misspelling as 'timecode' without hyphen in formal writing where 'time code' is preferred.
- Mispronouncing 'code' with a short vowel, e.g., /kɒd/ instead of /kəʊd/ or /koʊd/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is used to synchronize audio, video, and other media by providing precise time references for editing and playback.
Similar, but time code is typically for continuous media streams, while timestamps can mark discrete events in various contexts.
In British English, it's /taɪm kəʊd/; in American English, it's /taɪm koʊd/.
Yes, time code can be modified or regenerated in post-production, but original time code is often preserved for accuracy.
A sequence of numeric codes generated at regular intervals to identify specific points in time, primarily used for synchronization in audio, video, or other media.
Time code is usually technical in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember 'time code' as a code that acts like a digital clock for videos, marking each moment with numbers.
Conceptual Metaphor
Time as a mapped coordinate system, where codes serve as navigational points in media timelines.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a time code?