1
Core logical function
Indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
Example
The northern expedition mapped the coast; meanwhile, the southern team surveyed the interior.
meanwhile
/ˈmiːnwaɪl/ · MEEN-wylesimultaneous-time transition
Indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
Use meanwhile to express this relationship precisely: indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
What meanwhile Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Sentence connection
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The samples were cooling. Meanwhile, the researchers prepared the microscope slides.
3
Argument-level effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The law was debated for months, and meanwhile local councils adopted their own rules.
Use meanwhile Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The northern expedition mapped the coast; meanwhile, the southern team surveyed the interior.
The samples were cooling. Meanwhile, the researchers prepared the microscope slides.
The law was debated for months, and meanwhile local councils adopted their own rules.
Precision Matters
Meanwhile overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
meanwhile
vs.Means indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
from then on
Means starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
meanwhile
vs.Means indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
in turn
Means mark the next step in a sequence or a result that then produces another result.
meanwhile
vs.Means indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
in the short term
Means during the near future or over a limited period.
meanwhile
vs.Means indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
by contrast
Means introduces a clear difference from the preceding case or claim.
Test meanwhile in Context
The testing occurs during the same period as the journey.
1
The spacecraft travelled toward Mars. ___, engineers on Earth tested the landing sequence.