discourse connector · neutral
at the same time
/ət ðə seɪm taɪm/at·the·same·TIME
used to introduce a contrasting or additional point that exists simultaneously
Examples
“The plan is ambitious; at the same time, it may be unrealistic for small firms.”
“He is talented and, at the same time, modest about his achievements.”
“At the same time as improving access, the policy should control costs.”
Band 8 sentence
“The proposal increases short‑term expenses; at the same time, it is expected to boost productivity over the next decade.”
Collocations
- at the same time, + clause
- X and at the same time Y
Word family
Common mistakes
He is talented at same time lazy.→He is talented; at the same time, he is lazy.
At same time, the law was passed.→At the same time, the law was passed.
Say it for a higher band
5and→6meanwhile→7+at the same time
Synonyms
simultaneously
Easily confused
simultaneously
“The two experiments were conducted simultaneously.”
meanwhile
“Meanwhile, the team continued testing the samples.”
Related words
Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.
In Contrast
Learn it with its set