Meanwhile Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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meanwhile
[ˈmiːnˌwaɪl ]
Definitions
in the meantime
At the same time, during this time; in the interim.
Synonyms
in the interim, in the meantime, meanwhilst.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| meanwhile |
Used to refer to the period of time between two events or while something else is happening. Commonly used in both spoken and written English.
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| in the meantime |
A casual and common way to refer to the time between two events, often used in everyday conversation.
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| in the interim |
Formal expression often used in professional or official communications to refer to the time period between two events or changes.
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| meanwhilst |
A less common and somewhat archaic term, primarily used in British English. It means the same as 'meanwhile' but has a more formal tone.
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Examples of usage
- Meanwhile, I will work on the report.
- She was busy with her studies; meanwhile, he was preparing for the exam.
- Meanwhile, the situation worsened.
a period of time
A period of time between two events or situations.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| meanwhile |
Used when talking about events that happen at the same time as something else. Often employed to transition between two ongoing events or to highlight concurrent actions.
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| interim |
Describes a temporary period between two events or a temporary position. Commonly used in professional or official contexts.
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| meantime |
Similar to 'meanwhile', this word is used when discussing what takes place during the period that another event is happening or until another event occurs.
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| interlude |
Refers to a short period of time or event that occurs between longer periods, often used in literary or musical contexts. It can also imply a break or interruption.
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Examples of usage
- We will wait for your decision, but in the meanwhile, we will continue with our plan.
- She spent the meanwhile reading a book.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Famous authors like Charles Dickens used 'meanwhile' in their narratives to connect multiple storylines effectively.
- 'Meanwhile' sets the stage for parallel action in a story, illustrating how lives intersect during different circumstances.
- In poetry, it helps convey the flow of time and contrasting situations, adding richness to the imagery and emotions.
Cultural Usage
- In film and television, 'meanwhile' is often used in voiceovers to transition between scenes, effectively maintaining the viewer's connection.
- Social media posts frequently use 'meanwhile' to juxtapose two different scenarios, creating humor or irony among events.
- In conversations, it serves as a bridge, allowing speakers to shift attention from one topic to another fluidly.
Psychology
- 'Meanwhile' reflects the human ability to process multiple streams of information simultaneously, relevant in multitasking studies.
- Cognitive studies show that attention can be divided, making it possible for one to engage with 'meanwhile' moments effectively.
- Using 'meanwhile' can help in understanding temporal relationships, aiding memory retention of events occurring in relation to each other.
Language Evolution
- Many modern languages have their versions of 'meanwhile', showcasing its importance in communication across cultures.
- The phrase has evolved to include informal variations like 'in the meantime', indicating a shift in conversational style.
- The increase in digital communication has led to more casual uses of 'meanwhile', reflecting changing language norms.
Origin of 'meanwhile'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'mean' derives from the Old English word 'mæne', meaning 'common' or 'shared'.
- 'While' comes from the Old English 'hwile', meaning 'a period of time'. Together, they create a sense of simultaneous events.
- In Middle English, the term was used as 'mean while,' meaning 'in the meantime,' to indicate events coinciding.
The word 'meanwhile' originated in the late 14th century, derived from the Middle English 'meane while', which meant 'interim, period of time'. The word 'meanwhile' combines 'mean', which at that time meant 'middle', and 'while', referring to a period of time. Over the centuries, the word has retained its original meaning of 'in the meantime' or 'during this time'.
See also: demean, demeaning, mean, meaningless, meanly, meanness, means, meant, meantime, meanwhilst.