out of sync

phrase

1
: in a state in which two or more people or things do not move or happen together at the same time and speed
Some of the soldiers were marching out of sync.
The soundtrack was out of sync so they stopped the film.
often + with
She was out of sync with the other dancers.
2
: in a state in which two or more people or things do not agree with or match one another
I don't know the exact time. All the clocks in the office are out of sync.
often + with
His actions are completely out of sync with our goals.

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Cite this Entry

“Out of sync.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/out%20of%20sync. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.

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