at the same time

at the same time

Meaning

• used to refer to two or more things occurring together
• to refer to another alternative to be considered in addition to that which has already been mentioned
• all at once; simultaneously

Example Sentences

1. My mother has the ability to make me laugh and cry at the same time.
2. In as much as we will do everything to help him succeed, at the same time, we want him to appreciate the benefit of hard work.
3. Mary and Martha arrived at the concert at the same time.
4. Though I want the kids to be serious with their academic work, at the same time I want them to engage in sports and other extracurricular activities.
5. It takes a lot of practice to get the dancers to move at the same time.
6. Alex can be very stern and at the same time, she is quite warm, friendly and approachable.
7. I don't want to come across as rude but at the same time, I do not want to have people walk all over me

Origin

This is another idiom that doesn't have a special origin. It just evolved from the everyday usage of the English language and the words just became used to refer to their exact meanings.

Synonyms

• simultaneously; at once; concurrently; together
• nevertheless; even so; however; regardless; notwithstanding; anyhow; anyway