"meanwhile" vs "in the mean time"

Question

"meanwhile" vs "in the mean time"

Both 'in the mean time' and 'meanwhile' are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. 'In the mean time' is used to refer to a period of time between two events or actions, while 'meanwhile' is used to indicate something happening at the same time as something else.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

This phrase is used to introduce a contrasting or simultaneous event or situation.

Examples:

I will finish this report. Meanwhile, you can start preparing dinner.
She went to the store. Meanwhile, he stayed home to clean.
The children were playing outside. Meanwhile, the adults were having a conversation inside.
The team is working on the project. Meanwhile, the manager is attending a meeting.
The guests arrived. Meanwhile, the host was still getting ready.

Alternatives:

in the mean time
in the meantime
in the interim
in the interval
for now

This phrase is used to indicate a temporary period of time during which something else is expected to happen.

Examples:

In the mean time, I will finish this report.
You can start preparing dinner, and in the mean time, I will set the table.
In the mean time, let's focus on completing this task.
She will be back in the mean time, so we can wait for her.
In the mean time, you can read a book or watch TV.

Alternatives:

meanwhile
in the meantime
in the interim
in the interval
for now

Answer 1

meanwhile

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate something happening at the same time as something else.

Answer 2

in the mean time

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a period of time between two events or actions.

"meanwhile" vs "in the mean time"

meanwhile

in the mean time

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