"Pace" vs. "speed"

Question

Is there a difference between "pace" and "speed"? I have a feeling that with "speed" we usually specify the actual value, while with "pace" we talk more relatively. Am I right?

Matt Vee · Accepted Answer

Yes, you are right.

Instead of speed you could use the word velocity. Either should include velocity units (distance units / time units) whenever mentioned.

Pace gives a relation to others performing the same task.

Set the pace. 
He's not keeping pace.
I can't work at the same pace.
We have a pace setter for our 5k run.
The pace car is on the track.

TecBrat · Answer

In some contexts, "pace" can mean the rhythm or tempo, so the speed of a person walking with short strides and a quick pace might equal someone walking with long strides and a slower pace.

ntc2 · Answer

In the context of running, "pace" can mean the inverse of speed. I.e., whereas speed is measured in units of distance per unit of time (e.g. miles per hour), pace is measured in units of time per unit of distance (e.g. minutes per mile).

See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pace_(speed).

user255594 · Answer

Pace is the inverse of speed

Someone who travels at 60 km in 60 minutes has a SPEED of 60km per hour

However, if we reverse this, they have a PACE of 60 minutes per 60 km
or rather .. their PACE is  1 minute per km.

sina · Answer

This ambiguity also occurred to me when I was practicing with a health and pedometer program. For example, reported that maximum pace (03'52"/km) and average pace (10'08"/km). This means that in average I have covered one kilometer in 10 minutes and 8 seconds and maximum speed has been 3 minutes and 52 seconds per kilometer. In terms of standard unit my average speed was (6km/h).

Answered by sina on March 12, 2021

"Pace" vs. "speed"

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