How Do You Spell THE MEANTIME?

Pronunciation: [ðə mˈiːnta͡ɪm] (IPA)

The word "the meantime" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ðə ˈmiːn.taɪm/. It is a compound word made up of the definite article "the" and the noun "meantime". The pronunciation of "meantime" is /ˈmiːn.taɪm/, with stress on the second syllable. The spelling of this word reflects its origins in Middle English, where "meantime" referred to a period of time in the middle of the day. Over time, the meaning of the word shifted to refer to the period of time between two events or actions.

THE MEANTIME Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "the meantime" refers to the period of time that occurs between two events, circumstances, or actions. It is often used to indicate the interval that elapses while waiting for something else to happen or be resolved. "The meantime" specifically highlights the time frame or duration of this interim period that separates two significant points in time.

   This expression can be applied in various contexts, such as when there is a delay or a pause in the progression of a specific process, and people wish to describe what happens during that interval. For instance, if someone is waiting for official confirmation about a job offer, they might say, "I am currently unemployed, but I will search for temporary work in the meantime."

   "The meantime" can also signify a contingency plan or an alternative action taken temporarily while waiting for a desired outcome. For example, if the primary means of transportation is unavailable or delayed, one might say, "I will walk to my destination, but you can look for a taxi in the meantime."

   Overall, "the meantime" emphasizes the significance of the intervening period or the temporary nature of actions or situations occurring between two events, actions, or circumstances. It assists in framing the span of time between events or actions and helps to convey the idea of utilizing alternative measures or awaiting a resolution while in this interim phase.

Common Misspellings for THE MEANTIME

• rhe meantime
• fhe meantime
• ghe meantime
• yhe meantime
• 6he meantime
• 5he meantime
• tge meantime
• tbe meantime
• tne meantime
• tje meantime
• tue meantime
• tye meantime
• thw meantime
• ths meantime
• thd meantime
• thr meantime
• th4 meantime
• th3 meantime
• the neantime
• the keantime

Etymology of THE MEANTIME

The word meantime is derived from the Middle English phrase meantid, which in turn originated from the Old English phrase on middan time. On middan time can be further broken down into middan, meaning middle, and time, meaning a period or portion of time. Over time, on middan time evolved into meantid and eventually into the modern form meantime.

Idioms with the word THE MEANTIME

• in the meantime The idiom "in the meantime" refers to a period of time between two specified events or situations. It suggests that while waiting for something to happen or for a desired outcome to be achieved, one can occupy or make use of the time by doing other things or focusing on other tasks. It implies a temporary phase during which one can engage in alternative activities until a particular event or situation occurs.
• for the meantime The idiom "for the meantime" means for the time being or temporarily. It refers to a short period during which something is done or in effect until a different situation or arrangement is established.