asynchronous

Asynchronous refers to something not occurring at the same time as another thing.

The opposite of asynchronous is synchronous, which means “occurring at the same time” or “simultaneous.” A face-to-face conversation is considered synchronous, because people are communicating in real time, whereas corresponding over email and text message—where the recipient can respond at a later time—is asynchronous.

Example: The server could only download updates for each game asynchronously, one after the other.

Asynchronous is recorded by the mid-1700s. It combines the Greek-based prefix a-, meaning “without, not,” and synchronous, meaning “occurring at the same time.” The word synchronous itself is also from Greek, combining syn- (“together”) and chronos (“time”).

The term asynchronous has specialized applications in several disciplines:

• In computer programming, asynchronous programming refers to a program that can only begin a new task once the preceding operation is completed.
• In education, asynchronous learning is an educational method that allows students to work at their own pace outside the constraints of a traditional classroom. Email and online discussion boards are common tools.

What are some other forms of asynchronous?

• asynchronously (adverb)
• asynchrony (noun)

What are some synonyms for asynchronous?

 

• serial
• sequential
• nonsynchronous

What are some words that share a root or word element with asynchronous?

 

• apathy
• apolitical
• synchronicity
• synch

 

What are some words that often get used in discussing asynchronous?

 

• asynchronous transmission
• communication
• distance learning
• real-time
• face-to-face

 

What are some words asynchronous may be commonly confused with?

• synchronism
• synchronous

Asynchronous, as noted, is often used in reference to computer programming, online education, and digital communication.

🐍📰 This step-by-step tutorial gives you the tools you need to start making asynchronous programming techniques a part of your repertoire. You'll learn how to use Python async features to take advantage of IO processes and free up your CPU https://t.co/fNYGEiY2ex

— Real Python (@realpython) September 26, 2019

Email is: permanent and asynchronous

Slack is: ephemeral and synchronous.

What work communication platform is effectively permanent and synchronous?

— Zak Kukoff (@zck) September 26, 2019

Death Stranding will have an “asynchronous” multiplayer mode, meaning that players can in a way impact each other, but there is no PvP or Co-Op. #deathstranding #multiplayer #PlayStation #PlayStationPlus #gamebuzhttps://t.co/q1c7ozAygW

— GameBuz (@game_buz) September 26, 2019

Which student below, A or B, is learning in an asynchronous environment?

A. This student is taking a class that involves working through online modules, post threads on a discussion board, checking in with the professor over email.
B. This student is taking a class that involves short lectures followed by group discussions and activities facilitated by the teacher.