mean ‧ while W2 /ˈmiːnwaɪl/ BrE AmE adverb [sentence adverb]
1 . while something else is happening:
Cook the sauce over a medium heat until it thickens. Meanwhile start boiling the water for the pasta.
2 . ( also in the meanwhile ) in the period of time between two events:
The flight will be announced soon. Meanwhile, please remain seated.
I knew I wouldn’t get my exam results for several weeks, and I wasn’t sure what to do in the meanwhile.
3 . used to compare two things, especially if they are completely different and are happening at the same time:
The incomes of male professionals went up by almost 80%. Meanwhile, part-time women workers saw their earnings fall.
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THESAURUS
▪ while during the time that you are doing something, or something is happening:
I bought a magazine while I was waiting for the train.
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While we were on holiday, my bag was stolen.
▪ meanwhile at the same time as something else is happening:
They’re still working on our bedroom. Meanwhile, we’re sleeping downstairs.
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The Russians, meanwhile, declared war on August 8.
▪ in the meantime during the period of time between now and a future event, or between two events in the past:
More aid is expected soon, but in the meantime these people are going hungry.
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My new job hadn’t started, so in the meantime I tried to write a book.
▪ whilst British English while. Whilst sounds a little more formal than while :
One American plane was forced to land whilst flying over North Korea.
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Whilst all this was going on, the performers were getting ready for the show.