WordValefrequency
the number of wave cycles per unit of time
In more detail
1. (noun) the number of times something happens within a particular period of time
2. (noun) the rate at which sound waves or radio waves move, measured in cycles per second
Examples
- 1. The frequency of her visits to the doctor has increased this year.
- 2. This radio station broadcasts on a frequency of 101.5 FM.
How to use frequency
Frequency as a count noun refers to how often something happens (e.g., 'the frequency of errors decreased'). In physics and engineering, it refers to the number of wave cycles per unit time, measured in hertz. The term is neutral and used across academic, technical, and everyday contexts.
Common phrases
- high frequency
- low frequency
- with increasing frequency
- frequency of occurrence
- radio frequency
- frequency band
Synonyms
rate · occurrence · prevalence · recurrence · incidence
Word family
frequent (adjective) · frequently (adverb) · infrequent (adjective) · infrequently (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners often confuse 'frequency' with 'frequent' (the adjective), or use the preposition 'in' instead of 'of' when saying 'frequency of occurrence' rather than 'frequency in occurrence.'
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