But meanwhile

USAGE SUMMARY

"But meanwhile" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to introduce a contrasting or alternative situation or event that is happening at the same time as another event. Example: "I wanted to go to the beach, but meanwhile, my sister was busy studying for her exams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But meanwhile, they are adjusting.

The New York Times

But meanwhile, what's that sound?

The Guardian - Music

"But meanwhile out there was Prince.

The Guardian - Music

But meanwhile, the Taliban was quietly regrouping.

The New York Times

But meanwhile, the harassment worsened in China.

The New York Times

But meanwhile the raspberries will be producing.

The New York Times

But meanwhile, the killers knock down 100.

The New York Times

But, meanwhile, China is trying to unsettle American alliances.

The Economist

But meanwhile, they would have to do without Carter.

The New York Times - Sports

But meanwhile, what books do you hide from your kids?

The New York Times

But meanwhile the opera world is awaiting her future choices.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "But meanwhile", ensure that the contrasting element is clear to the reader. The phrase works best when it sets up a noticeable shift in focus or expectation.

Common error

Avoid using "But meanwhile" when simply indicating the passage of time without any contrast. The 'but' component implies a divergence or unexpected development, not just sequential events.

Linguistic Context

"But meanwhile" functions as a conjunctive adverb, connecting two clauses or sentences while indicating a contrast or a simultaneous occurrence. This conveys that while one thing is happening, another, often unexpected, event is also taking place. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "But meanwhile" is a conjunctive adverb used to introduce a contrasting or simultaneous event. Ludwig AI data shows that it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. When writing, remember that "But meanwhile" implies a contrast, so ensure this element is clear in your sentence. Alternatives include "in the meantime" and "simultaneously", though these may not always capture the same nuance. Overall, understanding the function and context of "But meanwhile" will enhance your writing by adding depth and complexity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In the meantime

This alternative is mostly interchangeable, but emphasizes the temporal aspect.

In the interim

Focuses more on the time gap being filled by the concurrent action.

Simultaneously

Highlights the exact concurrence of events with less emphasis on contrast.

At the same time

A general phrase indicating concurrent events, lacking the contrast "but" implies.

Concurrently

Emphasizes the parallel nature of events happening together.

While this is happening

Explicitly links the concurrent event to the ongoing situation.

Yet, concurrently

This adds a touch of formality, emphasizing the contrast alongside simultaneous occurrence.

However, simultaneously

Emphasizes the contrast more strongly while still indicating concurrent events.

Nevertheless, at the same time

Highlights a contrast or contradiction that exists between two actions

Notwithstanding this

Points out an issue that is not withstanding another action.

FAQs

How is "But meanwhile" used in a sentence?

"But meanwhile" is used to introduce a contrasting event or situation that is happening at the same time as something else. For example: "The team was working on the presentation, but meanwhile, the client decided to postpone the meeting."

What's a similar phrase to "But meanwhile"?

Alternatives to "But meanwhile" include "in the meantime", "simultaneously", or "at the same time", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can I start a sentence with "But meanwhile"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "But meanwhile" is grammatically correct and stylistically acceptable, especially when you want to emphasize the contrast between the current statement and the previous one.

Is there a difference between "But meanwhile" and "In the meantime"?

While both phrases indicate something happening concurrently, "But meanwhile" often implies a contrast or unexpected turn, whereas "in the meantime" simply suggests what occurs during an interval. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight a contrast or just indicate a concurrent action.