At the same time

USAGE SUMMARY

"at the same time" is a valid term in written English.
It is used to refer to two events occurring at the same point in time in a given context. For example, "She was sad about leaving her friends, but at the same time she was excited to start exploring a new place."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At the same time.

The Guardian - Film

At the same time, Rees remains optimistic.

The New York Times - Sports

At the same time, demand falls.

The Economist

At the same time, he carries baggage.

The New York Times

At the same time, he closed franchises.

The New York Times

At the same time, prices are tumbling.

The Economist

At the same time, competitors have emerged.

The New York Times

At the same time, form reflects circumstances.

The New Yorker

At the same time, management has changed.

The New York Times

At the same time, joblessness has soared.

The New York Times

"At the same time, everybody needs recharging".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "At the same time" to effectively signal simultaneity, especially when contrasting or comparing two related points. This helps create a balanced and nuanced argument.

Common error

Avoid using "at the same time" repeatedly within a single paragraph. Vary your sentence structure and use synonyms like "meanwhile" or "simultaneously" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "At the same time" functions as an adverbial phrase. It typically modifies a clause or sentence, indicating that two events or states occur concurrently. Ludwig AI confirms its valid use in written English. This phrase is often used to introduce a contrast or comparison.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

11%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "At the same time" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate that two events or states occur concurrently, often introducing a contrasting or complementary idea. Ludwig AI validates its use in English writing. It functions to provide context and nuance by showing simultaneity. Predominantly found in "News & Media", it is suitable for various contexts, maintaining a neutral tone. While useful, avoid overuse by employing synonyms like "simultaneously" or "meanwhile".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Simultaneously

A single-word adverb that directly indicates that two things are happening at the same time, often used in formal contexts.

Concurrently

Similar to simultaneously, but may imply that processes or actions are happening together.

Meanwhile

Suggests that something else is happening during the same period, often introducing a contrasting or related event.

In the interim

Refers to events occurring during a specific interval, suggesting a temporary situation or pause.

In parallel

Suggests that two or more things are happening alongside each other, without necessarily interacting.

At once

Implies that things are happening instantly and together, often with a sense of immediacy.

At the selfsame time

An emphatic version of "at the same time", adding emphasis on the coincidence of the timing.

Together

Indicates actions or events that are combined or linked, often implying cooperation or shared purpose.

Synchronously

Emphasizes the precise alignment in time of multiple events, often used in technical or scientific contexts.

By the same token

Introduces a point that is similar to the previous one, often used to draw a comparison or analogy.

FAQs

How can I use "At the same time" in a sentence?

Use "At the same time" to show two things happening together or to contrast two related ideas, like: "She was excited about the trip, but "at the same time", she felt anxious about leaving her family."

What can I say instead of "At the same time"?

You can use "simultaneously", "meanwhile", or "concurrently" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to start a sentence with "At the same time"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "At the same time" is grammatically correct and serves as an effective way to connect contrasting or related ideas. For example: "At the same time, we must acknowledge the challenges ahead."

What's the difference between "At the same time" and "Simultaneously"?

"At the same time" is a phrase used to connect ideas or events happening concurrently, while ""simultaneously"" is an adverb that directly indicates that two things are happening at the same moment. "Simultaneously" is more formal and direct.