Meanwhile (adverb, noun) /ˈminˌhwaɪl/ LISTEN
The adverb meanwhile means ‘during the time between two events’ or ‘at the same time.’ As a noun, the meanwhile means ‘the time between.’
Example sentences
- Our move to California is planned for the middle of next month; meanwhile, we'll be busy packing.
- Susan went shopping on Saturday; meanwhile, her husband got a tattoo!
- The teacher will be gone for twenty minutes. In the meanwhile, please work on your essays.
Words often used with meanwhile
Meanwhile, back at the ranch is a well-known phrase in US English. In the past it was used by narrators of American cowboy movies as a transition between scenes. Now it is mostly used ironically. Example: “My wife is on a business trip in Hawaii. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the kids are driving me crazy!”
In pop culture
Listen to Kitty Wells singing “Meanwhile, Down at Joe’s” here:
Similar expressions
In the meantime is a synonym for meanwhile or in the meanwhile.
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