Meantime
Channel: English Unpacked
Date: 2024-01-05

The word "meantime" is an adverb that is used to refer to the period of time between two events or actions. It indicates that something happens or occurs while something else is going on. "Meantime" can also be used as a noun to refer to the intervening time or the period between two specific points.
Here are a few examples to illustrate the usage of "meantime":
1. Adverb usage:
   - I am going to the grocery store. Meantime, could you please start preparing dinner?
   In this example, "meantime" is used to indicate that while the speaker is going to the grocery store, they want the listener to start preparing dinner.
   - The team is working hard to finish the project. Meantime, the manager is organizing a meeting to discuss the next steps.
   Here, "meantime" suggests that while the team is working on the project, the manager is simultaneously organizing a meeting.
2. Noun usage:
   - The train is scheduled to arrive at 5 PM, and the meeting is at 6 PM. We have one hour in the meantime to grab a quick bite.
   In this sentence, "meantime" is used as a noun to refer to the hour between the train's arrival and the meeting.
   - The car broke down, and the mechanic said it would take a few days to fix. In the meantime, we'll have to use public transportation.
   Here, "meantime" is used as a noun to describe the period of time while the car is being repaired.
In summary, "meantime" is used to indicate that something happens or occurs while something else is happening. It can be used as an adverb to show simultaneous actions or as a noun to refer to the intervening time between two events.