quick-time

A soldier marches at quick-time across the training field.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Military marching pace: "quick-time" refers to a standard marching speed in military drills, typically 120 steps per minute or about 6 kilometers per hour.

Usage Examples

• (They maintained a brisk, regulated pace.)
• (A faster marching speed for tactical purposes.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be in quick-time": to adopt or maintain the standard marching pace.

  • The platoon remained in quick-time as they crossed the training field. (They kept the prescribed speed.)

• "quick-time step": the specific rhythm or cadence of a quick-time march.

  • The drummers beat out a steady quick-time step for the formation. (The cadence matching 120 steps per minute.)

Variants and Related Words

• Quick-march (n/verb): a command or action to begin marching in quick-time.

  • The sergeant shouted, 'Quick-march!' and the troops moved forward. (Initiate the quick-time pace.)

• Double-time (n): a faster marching pace (180 steps per minute), used for running.

  • The recruits switched from quick-time to double-time to reach the shelter. (A more rapid pace than quick-time.)

Synonyms

• Marching pace: the speed at which soldiers walk in formation.
• Standard step: the regulated speed for military drills.

Related Idioms

• "to step up the pace": to increase speed or effort, not exclusively military.

  • The team decided to step up the pace to meet the deadline. (Work faster, analogous to quick-time acceleration.)

• "in lockstep": to move in perfect unison, often referring to military discipline.

  • The soldiers moved in lockstep during quick-time. (Coordinated and synchronized movement.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Quick-time forward: to advance at the quick-time pace.
  • The unit quick-timed forward across the open ground. (Marched briskly ahead.)