pace*/

[peɪs] noun I

1) [singular/U] the speed at which something happens or is done

The pace of technological change increased steadily during the 20th century.[/ex]

The course allows students to progress at their own pace.[/ex]

2) [singular/U] the speed at which you move

a player with skill and pace (= the ability to move fast)[/ex]

We wandered along at a leisurely pace.[/ex]

3) [C] a step that you take when you walk or run

I took a few paces towards her.[/ex]

•

gather pace — British 1) to start to happen more quickly and have more success[/ex]

After 1946, support for European unity began to gather pace.[/ex]

— 2) to start to move more quickly

keep pace with sth — to develop or progress at the same rate as something else[/ex]

The government is not allowing salaries to keep pace with inflation.[/ex]

set the pace — to establish a rate or standard that others have to achieve[/ex]

II

verb

pace [peɪs]

1) [I/T] to walk with regular steps around a small area, because you are worried, nervous, or impatient

2) [T] to make the story in a book, film etc develop in a particular way

His films were always well paced and exciting.[/ex]

•

pace yourself — to avoid using all your energy too quickly, so that you have enough left to complete an activity[/ex]