What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
meanwhile
Example
Meanwhile, the children played in the backyard. [meanwhile: adverb]
Example
The company was losing money. Meanwhile, the CEO was on vacation. [meanwhile: conjunction]
during
Example
During the summer, I like to go swimming. [during: preposition]
Example
I read a book during the flight. [during: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
During is a more common word than meanwhile in everyday language. During is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while meanwhile is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between meanwhile and during?
Both meanwhile and during are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
