What does "meanwhile" mean? In what circumstances could I use it?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
"Meanwhile" has a couple of meanings. The first is a period of time when something else is happening simultaneously, or it's a kind of "interval" or waiting period - while something happens, one does something else to pass time. Another meaning of "meanwhile" is similar to "on the other hand" - a contrasting point or fact. You can use it to say two things are happening simultaneously, or to emphasise a contrasting point. Ex: They were driving home from their trip; meanwhile, I was home baking a cake. => at the same time Ex: Ryan said he's going to get a job. Meanwhile, he hasn't applied to any places. => contrasting point Ex: Meanwhile, I'll give you homework to practice with before your exam. => waiting period = While you wait, I'll give you homework to practice with before your exam.
