"at the same time" vs "in the meantime"

Question

"at the same time" vs "in the meantime"

These two phrases, 'in the meantime' and 'at the same time,' have different meanings and are not interchangeable. 'In the meantime' is used to refer to the period of time between two events or actions, while 'at the same time' is used to indicate that two actions are happening concurrently.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

Use 'at the same time' to show that two actions are occurring simultaneously or to introduce a contrasting idea.

Examples:

She was cooking dinner while talking on the phone at the same time.
He wanted to relax, but at the same time, he felt guilty for not working.
I enjoy spending time with my friends, but at the same time, I value my alone time.

Alternatives:

simultaneously
concurrently
meanwhile
in parallel
on the other hand

Use 'in the meantime' to indicate the time between two events or actions, often when referring to something that is temporary or interim.

Examples:

I'm waiting for the bus. In the meantime, I'll grab a coffee.
The repair will take a few hours. In the meantime, we can work on other tasks.
In the meantime, please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Alternatives:

meanwhile
in the interim
for now
temporarily
for the time being

Answer 1

at the same time

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that two actions are happening concurrently.

Answer 2

in the meantime

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

"at the same time" vs "in the meantime"

at the same time

in the meantime

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