C1noun 2K

Meantime

UK /["/ˈmiːntaɪm/"]/ US /["/ˈmiːntaɪm/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

for a short period of time but not permanently

Listen to definition

In simple words: The time in between two events.

Examples

• I'm changing my email address but for the meantime you can use the old one.
• My first novel was rejected by six publishers. In the meantime I had written a play.
• The next programme starts in five minutes; in the meantime, here’s some music.

Usage notes

Use 'meantime' to refer to the time between two events. It's neutral, suitable for both informal and formal situations, but avoid it in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'mean time' — it's the time that means something happens in the middle.

Collocations

• in the meantime
• in the meantime period
• use the meantime

Synonyms

• meanwhile
• interim
• in the interim
• at the same time

Antonyms

• future
• later
• afterward

Common mistakes

• Using 'meanwhile' incorrectly instead of 'meantime'.
• 'Meantime' is often used with 'in the meantime', which can confuse learners.