Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/kənˈkɜːrənt/

Definitions

• Occurring or existing at the same time; simultaneous.
• In law, referring to events or conditions that happen together.
• In computing, describing processes or tasks that can be executed simultaneously or in parallel.

Usage Examples

• The concurrent meetings were held in different rooms, making it difficult to attend both.
• The software supports concurrent processes to maximize system efficiency.
• Two concurrent legal cases were examined by the court on the same day.

Etymology

From the Latin word "concurrentem," the present participle of "concurrere," meaning "to run together" or "to meet." The word emerged in the late 16th century, with early usage describing simultaneous occurrences or actions.

Synonyms

• Simultaneous
• Coincidental
• Parallel
• Concurrent
• Synchronised

Antonyms

• Sequential
• Asynchronous
• Nonconcurrent
• Intermittent
• Delayed

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the word "concurrent" may be pronounced with a softer 'r': /kənˈkɜːrənt/.
• In British English, the pronunciation is often more rhotic, with the 'r' pronounced more sharply: /kənˈkɜːrɪnt/.

Historical Usage

The term "concurrent" has been used in English since the 16th century, initially referring to simultaneous actions or events. In legal and technical fields, it became particularly important during the 19th and 20th centuries with the rise of multi-tasking and parallel processes in both legal and computing systems.

Cultural Nuances

In the legal field, "concurrent" is often used to describe multiple charges that are served at the same time. In technology, it refers to simultaneous operations in computing systems, which is an essential concept for system efficiency. In broader cultural discussions, concurrency can reflect modern-day multi-tasking and the increased pace of contemporary life.

More Information

The word "concurrent" plays a vital role in various disciplines, from technology to law. In computing, it relates to the concurrent execution of multiple tasks, which is crucial in efficient system operation. In legal systems, concurrent sentences are those served at the same time, which impacts the judicial process. Understanding the term and its various applications helps in the appreciation of modern systems that handle multiple simultaneous actions or events.