meantime - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
meantime Word Meanings
- the time in between two events
- a temporary period
- while waiting for something to happen
meantime Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
- I will cook dinner. In the meantime, you can set the table.
- She is studying for her exam. In the meantime, I will read a book.
- They are fixing the car. In the meantime, we can go for a walk.
- He is at work. In the meantime, I will clean the house.
- The movie starts at 7. In the meantime, let’s grab some snacks.
meantime Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmiːn.taɪm/
US
/ˈmiːn.taɪm/
meantime Word Etymology
mean = intermediate, time = period; Origin: Middle English → Old English → Germanic. Visualize a clock indicating a pause between two significant hours, representing the time in between.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I press my palm on the desk and watch the clock hands move, letting a small pause settle between two tasks. In the meantime, I shift in my chair, adjust my posture, and feel the moment stretch. The space grows quiet, and I hold still long enough to sense what needs to happen next. When the next cue comes, I turn, push off the chair, and carry the effort of this meantime into action.
Real Context
Meantime is a noun that refers to the period of time between two events or during a temporary pause. You use it to talk about what happens while you are waiting for something else to occur. It is closely linked with the phrase in the meantime, which means during that interval. You can also say for the meantime to indicate that a plan will hold temporarily. Unlike meanwhile, which often marks two things happening at the same time, meantime emphasizes the intervening duration. This sense is common in both spoken and written English, especially in news, schedules, and everyday conversation.
Usage Reminders
- Remember the noun form for the time between events.
- Use in the meantime to describe ongoing actions during waiting.
- Meanwhile often marks two things happening at once, not a waiting gap.
- For the meantime introduces a temporary arrangement.
- Keep pronouns and tense aligned with the surrounding sentence.
Common Misconceptions
- Meantime means the exact present moment, not a span of time.
- Meantime and meanwhile are always interchangeable in all contexts.
- Meantime can replace for the time being in every sentence.
- Meantime is the same as GMT or mean time in time zones.
- Meantime is only used in formal writing.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, meanwhile often focuses on two things happening at the same time, while meantime emphasizes the gap between events; phrase choice depends on whether you want to stress simultaneity or a waiting period.
Learning Tips
- Pair meantime with in the meantime to show ongoing waiting.
- Remember it is a noun, not a verb.
- Compare with meanwhile to choose the right nuance.
- Use for the meantime to signal a temporary rule or plan.
- Watch collocations: time, between, events, between now and then.
- Practice with real-life wait times (delays, queues, approvals).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'meantime'?
A.A specific location
B.A period of time
C.A state of confusion
D.A type of meal
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'meantime' used correctly?
A.He was lost in the meantime of the forest.
B.She decided to clean the house, meantime she waited for her friend.
C.In the meantime, they prepared lunch for everyone.
D.Meantime I took a nap in the park.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'meantime'?
A.Endless
B.Interval
C.Immediately
D.Sometime
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'meantime'?
A.Present
B.Past
C.Future
D.Always
Step 5: Mastery
When waiting for the train, she decided to read a book in the ________.
A.Sunshine
B.Meantime
C.Confusion
D.Midnight
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