Word: Meanwhile

Pronunciation

/ˌmɛnˈwaɪl/

Definitions

• Adverb: During the time that something else is happening; meantime. It is used to indicate that two or more events are happening concurrently or that one event is taking place while waiting for another to happen.

  Example: “I’ll finish my homework meanwhile, and then we can watch a movie.”

  "Meanwhile, back at the ranch" is a colloquial phrase often used humorously to introduce a parallel action or storyline.

Phrases

• In the meanwhile: During the intervening time; until a particular event happens.

  “In the meanwhile, we’ll have to use the old system.”

• Meanwhile, back at…: As mentioned above, this phrase introduces a change of scene or focus, usually humorously, suggesting that other events are happening simultaneously elsewhere.

• Meanwhile, back home/in the office/at school: This is used to shift the narrative or discussion from one location or situation to another.

Example Sentences

• Adverb: “The kids were playing outside, meanwhile, their parents were preparing dinner.”
• “She’s looking for a new job, meanwhile, she’s working part-time to support herself.”

Synonyms

• Concurrently
• Simultaneously
• In the meantime
• Temporarily
• For the time being
• In the interim
• During the interval
• Whilst (British English)