与此同时 in 30 Seconds

  • Connects events happening at the same time.
  • Used to show parallel actions or contrasting situations.
  • Formal and common in writing, news, and speeches.
  • Translates to 'at the same time' or 'simultaneously'.
Core Meaning
The Chinese conjunction '与此同时' (yǔ cǐ tóng shí) directly translates to 'at the same time' or 'simultaneously' in English. It serves to link two or more events, actions, or states that are happening concurrently. It's a versatile connector that can indicate parallel activities, contrasting situations occurring together, or a development that happens alongside another.
Usage Scenarios
You'll encounter '与此同时' in various contexts. It's frequently used in narrative writing, news reporting, and formal discussions to describe events unfolding in parallel. For instance, when discussing a major international event, you might use '与此同时' to describe a related development happening in a different country. It can also be used to highlight a contrast between two simultaneous occurrences. Imagine a situation where one person is celebrating a success while another is facing a setback; '与此同时' would be an excellent connector here. In more technical or scientific writing, it emphasizes the synchronous nature of processes or phenomena. The key is that the actions or states it connects are happening in the same time frame, even if they are independent of each other.
Grammatical Function
As a conjunction, '与此同时' typically appears at the beginning of the second clause or sentence, linking it to the preceding one. It often functions similarly to English phrases like 'meanwhile', 'at the same time', 'simultaneously', or 'concurrently'. Its placement helps to establish a clear temporal relationship between the ideas being presented, ensuring the reader understands that these events are not sequential but co-occurring.
Nuance and Tone
The tone of '与此同时' is generally neutral to formal. It's not typically used in very casual, everyday conversations among close friends unless the context demands a precise description of simultaneous events. However, it's perfectly natural in most written forms and in spoken language when discussing more complex or factual matters. It adds a degree of sophistication and clarity to sentences, making it a valuable tool for advanced learners aiming to express nuanced temporal relationships.

The president gave a speech about economic reform, and 与此同时, the stock market experienced a significant surge.

She was studying hard for her exams, and 与此同时, her brother was planning a surprise party for her.

The new policy was implemented nationwide, and 与此同时, many citizens expressed their concerns about its potential impact.

Expanding the Concept
'与此同时' is a crucial conjunction for developing complex sentences that describe overlapping events. It allows for a more dynamic and detailed portrayal of situations by presenting multiple threads of activity concurrently. For example, in a historical account, one might describe a nation's wartime efforts and, '与此同时', the internal social changes that were occurring. This adds depth to the narrative, showing that history is not a single stream but a confluence of many simultaneous developments. In scientific contexts, it might be used to explain that while one chemical reaction is proceeding, '与此同时', another reaction is occurring in a different part of the system, potentially influencing the overall outcome. The ability to articulate these parallel occurrences is a hallmark of advanced language proficiency.
Basic Structure
The most common structure involves two clauses. The first clause describes an event or situation, and the second clause, introduced by '与此同时', describes another event or situation happening concurrently. It often follows a comma and precedes the second event. For example: '他正在努力学习 (Tā zhèngzài nǔlì xuéxí) - He is studying hard. 与此同时 (yǔ cǐ tóng shí) - At the same time, '他正在努力学习。与此同时,他的妹妹在公园里玩耍 (Tā zhèngzài nǔlì xuéxí. Yǔ cǐ tóng shí, tā de mèimei zài gōngyuán lǐ wánshuǎ) - He is studying hard. At the same time, his sister is playing in the park.'
Connecting Parallel Actions
'与此同时' is excellent for showing two things happening side-by-side. Think of it as painting a wider picture. For instance: '公司正在推出新产品 (Gōngsī zhèngzài tuīchū xīn chǎnpǐn) - The company is launching a new product. 与此同时 (yǔ cǐ tóng shí) - At the same time, '公司正在进行大规模的广告宣传 (Gōngsī zhèngzài jìnxíng dà guīmó de guǎnggào xuānchuán) - the company is conducting a large-scale advertising campaign. Full sentence: '公司正在推出新产品,与此同时,他们正在进行大规模的广告宣传。 (Gōngsī zhèngzài tuīchū xīn chǎnpǐn, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, tāmen zhèngzài jìnxíng dà guīmó de guǎnggào xuānchuán.) - The company is launching a new product, and at the same time, they are conducting a large-scale advertising campaign.'
Highlighting Contrast
It can also be used to juxtapose contrasting situations that are occurring simultaneously, adding a layer of dramatic irony or complexity. Example: '他刚刚中了彩票,非常高兴 (Tā gānggāng zhòngle cǎipiào, fēicháng gāoxìng) - He just won the lottery and is very happy. 与此同时 (yǔ cǐ tóng shí) - At the same time, '他的朋友却刚刚失业,心情非常沮丧 (tā de péngyǒu què gānggāng shīyè, xīnqíng fēicháng jǔsàng) - his friend just lost their job and is very depressed. Full sentence: '他刚刚中了彩票,非常高兴,与此同时,他的朋友却刚刚失业,心情非常沮丧。 (Tā gānggāng zhòngle cǎipiào, fēicháng gāoxìng, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, tā de péngyǒu què gānggāng shīyè, xīnqíng fēicháng jǔsàng.) - He just won the lottery and is very happy, while at the same time, his friend just lost their job and is very depressed.'
Formal and Written Usage
'与此同时' is very common in news reports, academic papers, and formal speeches. It lends a professional and precise tone. Consider a news report: '政府宣布了新的经济刺激计划 (Zhèngfǔ xuānbulē xīn de jīngjì cìjī jìhuà) - The government announced a new economic stimulus plan. 与此同时 (yǔ cǐ tóng shí) - At the same time, '国际货币基金组织对该计划表示了谨慎的乐观 (Guójì huòbì jījīn zǔ duì gāi jìhuà biǎoshìle jǐnshèn de lèguān) - the International Monetary Fund expressed cautious optimism about the plan. Full sentence: '政府宣布了新的经济刺激计划,与此同时,国际货币基金组织对该计划表示了谨慎的乐观。 (Zhèngfǔ xuānbulē xīn de jīngjī cìjī jìhuà, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, guójì huòbì jījīn zǔ duì gāi jìhuà biǎoshìle jǐnshèn de lèguān.) - The government announced a new economic stimulus plan, and at the same time, the International Monetary Fund expressed cautious optimism about the plan.'
Connecting Complex Ideas
You can use '与此同时' to connect more abstract or complex ideas. For example: '科技的飞速发展带来了许多便利 (Kējì de fēisù fǎzhǎn dài láile xǔduō biànlì) - The rapid development of technology has brought many conveniences. 与此同时 (yǔ cǐ tóng shí) - At the same time, '它也引发了关于隐私和安全的担忧 (tā yě yǐnfāle guānyú yǐnsī hé ānquán de dānyōu) - it has also raised concerns about privacy and security. Full sentence: '科技的飞速发展带来了许多便利,与此同时,它也引发了关于隐私和安全的担忧。 (Kējì de fēisù fǎzhǎn dài láile xǔduō biànlì, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, tā yě yǐnfāle guānyú yǐnsī hé ānquán de dānyōu.) - The rapid development of technology has brought many conveniences, and at the same time, it has also raised concerns about privacy and security.'

The artist was painting a vibrant landscape, and 与此同时, a gentle breeze rustled through the trees in the background.

The city was bustling with activity during the day, but 与此同时, a sense of calm settled over the ancient temples.

News Broadcasts and Reports
'与此同时' is a staple in news reporting. When a news anchor or reporter is describing a developing story, they often use it to connect events happening in different locations or different aspects of the same event. For example, a report on a natural disaster might mention the immediate rescue efforts in one area and, '与此同时', describe the logistical challenges faced by aid organizations in another. This conjunction helps listeners or readers grasp the multifaceted nature of unfolding events. You'll hear it frequently when discussing international relations, economic trends, or political developments where multiple factors are at play concurrently.
Documentaries and Educational Programs
Educational content, especially those focusing on history, science, or social studies, often employs '与此同时' to illustrate parallel processes or historical occurrences. A documentary about the Industrial Revolution might discuss the invention of new machinery and, '与此同时', explore the societal shifts and urbanization that accompanied these technological advancements. In science documentaries, it can be used to explain complex biological or physical processes where multiple actions are happening simultaneously within a system. The clarity it provides is essential for conveying complex information effectively.
Formal Speeches and Presentations
In formal settings like conferences, academic lectures, or official speeches, '与此同时' is used to structure arguments and present information in a logical and organized manner. A speaker might introduce a main point and then, '与此同时', present supporting data or a contrasting perspective that is also relevant at that moment. This helps to create a comprehensive overview of the topic, acknowledging concurrent developments or considerations. It adds a layer of formality and precision to the speaker's discourse.
Narrative Literature and Film
While less common in everyday casual conversation, '与此同时' can appear in more literary or dramatic contexts in novels, plays, or film scripts. Authors and screenwriters might use it to create a sense of dramatic tension or to provide parallel plotlines. For example, a scene might describe a character facing a personal crisis, and '与此同时', a larger societal event is unfolding that will eventually impact them. This technique helps to build a richer narrative tapestry by weaving together different threads of the story that are occurring at the same time.
Business and Economic Discussions
In business meetings, economic analyses, or financial reports, '与此同时' is used to describe concurrent market trends, company strategies, or global economic shifts. A financial analyst might discuss a company's quarterly earnings report and, '与此同时', mention the broader market conditions that influenced those results. This conjunction is valuable for providing a holistic view of complex business environments where multiple factors are constantly interacting.

The news anchor reported on the election results, and 与此同时, analysts were discussing the potential impact on foreign policy.

In the documentary, they showed the ancient ruins, and 与此同时, they explained the scientific methods used to preserve them.

Confusing Simultaneity with Sequence
A common error is using '与此同时' to connect events that happen one after another (sequential) rather than at the same time (simultaneous). For example, saying '我吃完饭,与此同时,我去看电影 (Wǒ chī wán fàn, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, wǒ qù kàn diànyǐng) - I finished eating, at the same time, I went to watch a movie' is incorrect. Eating finishes before going to the movie. The correct conjunction for sequence would be something like '然后 (ránhòu) - then' or '接着 (jiēzhe) - next'. '与此同时' demands that both actions are occurring concurrently.
Incorrect Placement
While '与此同时' typically introduces the second clause, learners might sometimes place it incorrectly within the first clause or at the very end of the sentence without a clear preceding event to connect to. The conjunction needs a clear anchor in the preceding sentence or clause. For instance, simply saying '与此同时,天气很好 (Yǔ cǐ tóng shí, tiānqì hěn hǎo) - At the same time, the weather is good' lacks context. It should follow a statement about another concurrent event, like '我在公园散步,与此同时,天气很好 (Wǒ zài gōngyuán sànbù, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, tiānqì hěn hǎo) - I am walking in the park, and at the same time, the weather is good.'
Overuse in Casual Conversation
'与此同时' carries a relatively formal tone. Using it excessively in very casual conversations with friends can sound unnatural or overly stiff. For example, instead of saying '我正在看电视,与此同时,我妈妈在做饭 (Wǒ zhèngzài kàn diànshì, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, wǒ māma zài zuò fàn) - I am watching TV, at the same time, my mom is cooking', a more natural phrasing might be '我正在看电视,我妈妈在做饭呢 (Wǒ zhèngzài kàn diànshì, wǒ māma zài zuò fàn ne) - I'm watching TV, and my mom is cooking'. Reserve '与此同时' for situations where you need to explicitly emphasize the concurrent nature of events, especially in more formal or descriptive writing and speech.
Lack of Clear Parallelism
Another mistake is using '与此同时' when the two events are not truly parallel or simultaneous in a meaningful way. For instance, describing a cause and effect relationship as if they were simultaneous. '他考试不及格,与此同时,他很伤心 (Tā kǎoshì bù jígé, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, tā hěn shāngxīn) - He failed the exam, at the same time, he is very sad'. While failing the exam and feeling sad might happen close together, the sadness is a direct consequence of failing, not an independent event happening concurrently. A better phrasing might be '他考试不及格,所以他很伤心 (Tā kǎoshì bù jígé, suǒyǐ tā hěn shāngxīn) - He failed the exam, so he is very sad.'
Grammatical Agreement Issues
While less common with this specific conjunction, learners might sometimes struggle with verb tenses or aspects in the clauses connected by '与此同时'. Ensure that both clauses accurately describe ongoing or completed actions happening in the same timeframe. For example, if one clause describes a completed action and the other an ongoing one, it might not fit the 'simultaneously' meaning as well unless the ongoing action is presented as a backdrop or context for the completed one. It's crucial that the temporal relationship is logical and clear.

Incorrect: 'He finished his homework, and 与此同时, he watched TV.'

Corrected: 'He finished his homework, and then he watched TV.'

同时 (tóng shí)
'同时' is a more general term for 'at the same time' or 'simultaneously'. It can function as both an adverb and a conjunction. '与此同时' is often considered a more formal or literary variant, specifically used as a conjunction to link two clauses. While '同时' can sometimes replace '与此同时', '与此同时' adds a slightly more emphatic or descriptive nuance, often used to bridge two distinct but concurrent events or situations. Example: '他同时学习英语和法语 (Tā tóng shí xuéxí Yīngyǔ hé Fǎyǔ) - He studies English and French at the same time.' Here, '同时' functions as an adverb. For a conjunction use: '他正在工作,同时,他的妻子在购物 (Tā zhèngzài gōngzuò, tóngshí, tā de qīzi zài gòuwù) - He is working, at the same time, his wife is shopping.' This is very similar to '与此同时'.
一并 (yī bìng)
'一并' means 'together', 'all together', or 'at the same time' in the sense of handling multiple things as one package or group. It's less about temporal simultaneity and more about a collective action or treatment. It's often used when referring to doing things together or including something along with others. Example: '请把这些文件一并处理 (Qǐng bǎ zhèxiē wénjiàn yī bìng chǔlǐ) - Please process these documents together.' This is different from '与此同时', which focuses on two separate events happening concurrently.
跟着 (gēnzhe)
'跟着' primarily means 'to follow' or 'along with'. While it can imply a temporal aspect, it's usually about following someone or something, or accompanying an action. It's not a direct substitute for '与此同时'. Example: '他跟着我一起去 (Tā gēnzhe wǒ yīqǐ qù) - He is going with me.' This indicates accompaniment, not simultaneous independent events.
并且 (bìng qiě)
'并且' means 'and', 'furthermore', or 'in addition'. It's used to connect two clauses or phrases, often adding more information or a supplementary point. While it connects ideas, it doesn't inherently imply simultaneity in the same way '与此同时' does. It's more about adding on. Example: '他很高,并且很聪明 (Tā hěn gāo, bìngqiě hěn cōngmíng) - He is tall, and also very smart.' This connects two attributes, not necessarily simultaneous actions.
Meanwhile (English equivalent)
In English, 'meanwhile' is a very close equivalent. It serves the same purpose of connecting two events occurring at the same time. For instance, 'The meeting started at 10 AM. Meanwhile, the other team was still traveling.' This maps directly to how '与此同时' is used in Chinese.
Concurrently (English equivalent)
'Concurrently' is another strong English parallel, emphasizing that events are happening at the same time. It's often used in more formal or technical contexts, much like '与此同时'. For example, 'The experiment was conducted concurrently with the field study.' This highlights the synchronized nature of the activities.

'他正在学习,同时他在工作。' (Tā zhèngzài xuéxí, tóngshí tā zài gōngzuò.) - He is studying, at the same time, he is working. (Using '同时')

'他正在学习,与此同时,他在工作。' (Tā zhèngzài xuéxí, yǔ cǐ tóng shí, tā zài gōngzuò.) - He is studying, and at the same time, he is working. (Using '与此同时')

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The structure of '与此同时' is quite common in Chinese for creating nuanced conjunctions. The combination of '此' (this) and '同' (same) with '时' (time) effectively pinpoints the exact temporal overlap being described. It's a precise way to link parallel narratives or events.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌjuː ˈtʃaɪ ˈtʊŋ ˈʃiː/
US /ˌjuː ˈtʃaɪ ˈtʊŋ ˈʃiː/
The primary stress falls on the second syllable of 'tóng' (tong) and 'shí' (shi), with secondary stress on the first syllable of 'yǔ' (yǔ) and 'cǐ' (cǐ).
Rhymes With
shuí
Common Errors
  • Incorrectly pronouncing the tones, which can change the meaning of the syllables.
  • Omitting the slight pause or separation between the two parts of the phrase, making it sound rushed.
  • Confusing the tones with similar-sounding words.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Recognizing '与此同时' in reading requires understanding its conjunctive role and the temporal relationship it establishes between clauses. Texts using it tend to be descriptive or narrative, requiring attention to detail and context. Its formal nature means it appears in more complex writing.

Writing 4/5

Using '与此同时' correctly in writing demands careful sentence construction to ensure true simultaneity. Learners must avoid sequential or cause-and-effect relationships. Its formal tone also requires appropriate contexts.

Speaking 3/5

In spoken Chinese, '与此同时' is used but might be replaced by simpler phrases in very casual settings. Pronunciation, especially tones, is crucial. Its formal nature makes it more common in prepared speeches or news reporting than spontaneous chat.

Listening 4/5

Identifying '与此同时' in listening is important for understanding complex narratives or news. Its pronunciation and placement signal a shift to a concurrent event. Distinguishing it from sequential conjunctions is key.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

同时 然后 并且 时间 发生 现在

Learn Next

然而 尽管如此 总之 此外

Advanced

就...而言 一方面...另一方面... 不仅...而且...

Grammar to Know

Conjunctions for Time

Understanding how conjunctions like '与此同时' (simultaneously), '然后' (then), '接着' (next), and '当...时' (when) indicate different temporal relationships is crucial for sentence fluency.

Sentence Structure with Conjunctions

Conjunctions like '与此同时' typically connect two independent clauses. The structure often follows: Clause 1, '与此同时', Clause 2.

Adverbial Phrases

'与此同时' functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the temporal relationship between clauses. It's placed at the beginning of the second clause.

Formal vs. Informal Language

'与此同时' is generally considered more formal than '同时'. Choosing the right conjunction depends on the register of the conversation or writing.

Parallelism in Sentences

When using '与此同时', ensure that the two connected clauses describe events that are truly happening in parallel or concurrently, maintaining a sense of balance.

Examples by Level

1

我吃饭,与此同时,他在看电视。

I eat, at the same time, he watches TV.

Simple sentence structure connecting two simultaneous actions.

2

她在笑,与此同时,我在哭。

She is smiling, at the same time, I am crying.

Contrasting emotions happening simultaneously.

3

天在下雨,与此同时,太阳出来了。

It is raining, at the same time, the sun came out.

Describing a paradoxical or unusual simultaneous event.

4

他睡觉,与此同时,我写作业。

He sleeps, at the same time, I do homework.

Two people engaged in different activities at the same time.

5

我唱歌,与此同时,他弹吉他。

I sing, at the same time, he plays guitar.

Two parallel musical activities happening together.

6

狗在叫,与此同时,猫在跑。

The dog is barking, at the same time, the cat is running.

Describing simultaneous animal actions.

7

我走路,与此同时,我在想事情。

I walk, at the same time, I think about things.

Connecting a physical action with a mental process.

8

灯亮了,与此同时,门开了。

The light turned on, at the same time, the door opened.

Two sequential events happening very closely, presented as simultaneous.

1

妈妈在做饭,与此同时,爸爸在看报纸。

Mom is cooking, at the same time, Dad is reading the newspaper.

Connecting two common household activities occurring concurrently.

2

孩子们在公园玩耍,与此同时,老师在旁边看着。

The children are playing in the park, at the same time, the teacher is watching nearby.

Describing a scenario with multiple actors and their simultaneous actions.

3

火车进站了,与此同时,许多乘客下了车。

The train arrived at the station, at the same time, many passengers got off.

Connecting a major event with its immediate consequence.

4

他正在学习,与此同时,他的朋友在听音乐。

He is studying, at the same time, his friend is listening to music.

Highlighting different activities of individuals in the same environment.

5

外面在下雪,与此同时,屋子里很暖和。

It is snowing outside, at the same time, it is warm inside the house.

Contrasting external and internal conditions occurring simultaneously.

6

公司发布了新产品,与此同时,市场反应积极。

The company released a new product, at the same time, the market reaction was positive.

Connecting a business action with its market outcome.

7

她正在写信,与此同时,她的宠物在旁边睡觉。

She is writing a letter, at the same time, her pet is sleeping beside her.

Describing a personal activity alongside a pet's action.

8

比赛开始了,与此同时,观众们欢呼雀跃。

The game started, at the same time, the spectators cheered excitedly.

Connecting the start of an event with the audience's reaction.

1

政府推行了新的环保政策,与此同时,许多企业开始投资绿色技术。

The government implemented new environmental protection policies, and at the same time, many businesses started investing in green technology.

Connecting policy implementation with industry response.

2

他在努力学习准备考试,与此同时,他的家人也在为他的成功祈祷。

He is studying hard to prepare for the exam, and at the same time, his family is also praying for his success.

Describing parallel personal efforts and familial support.

3

这个城市正在经历快速的经济发展,与此同时,交通拥堵问题也日益严重。

This city is undergoing rapid economic development, and at the same time, the problem of traffic congestion is also becoming increasingly severe.

Highlighting a positive development alongside a negative consequence.

4

艺术家正在创作一幅巨型壁画,与此同时,社区居民们也在积极参与壁画的周边环境美化。

The artist is creating a giant mural, and at the same time, community residents are also actively participating in beautifying the area around the mural.

Connecting an artistic creation with community involvement.

5

科学家们正在研究一种新型疫苗,与此同时,临床试验也在全球范围内展开。

Scientists are researching a new type of vaccine, and at the same time, clinical trials are also being conducted worldwide.

Linking scientific research with its practical application and testing phase.

6

他刚结束一次长途飞行,与此同时,他还在适应时差。

He just finished a long-haul flight, and at the same time, he is still adjusting to the time difference.

Describing the immediate aftermath of an event and its ongoing effects.

7

学校正在庆祝建校五十周年,与此同时,校友们也从世界各地赶来参加庆典。

The school is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and at the same time, alumni are also coming from all over the world to attend the celebration.

Connecting a celebratory event with the participation of dispersed individuals.

8

新的通信技术正在普及,与此同时,人们对个人隐私的担忧也在增加。

New communication technologies are becoming widespread, and at the same time, people's concerns about personal privacy are also increasing.

Linking technological advancement with societal concerns.

1

该地区正经历严重的干旱,与此同时,国际援助组织正在协调提供紧急水源。

The region is experiencing a severe drought, and simultaneously, international aid organizations are coordinating to provide emergency water supplies.

Connecting a natural disaster with the response efforts.

2

公司在努力削减成本以应对市场下滑,与此同时,他们也在积极研发创新产品以寻求新的增长点。

The company is striving to cut costs to cope with the market downturn, while concurrently, they are also actively developing innovative products to seek new growth areas.

Describing simultaneous strategies for crisis management and future growth.

3

随着全球化的深入,文化交流日益频繁,与此同时,文化冲突和误解的风险也随之增加。

As globalization deepens, cultural exchanges are becoming increasingly frequent, and at the same time, the risk of cultural conflicts and misunderstandings is also increasing.

Linking the benefits of globalization with its potential drawbacks.

4

这位政治家在公开场合强调改革的重要性,与此同时,他在私下里也在与各方势力进行艰难的谈判。

This politician emphasizes the importance of reform in public, while simultaneously, he is also engaged in difficult negotiations with various factions privately.

Juxtaposing public pronouncements with private actions.

5

该技术在提升生产效率方面取得了显著成就,与此同时,其对环境造成的潜在影响也引起了广泛关注。

This technology has achieved remarkable success in improving production efficiency, and concurrently, its potential environmental impact has also attracted widespread attention.

Highlighting the dual nature of technological advancement: benefits and concerns.

6

他在进行一项艰巨的科学研究,与此同时,他还要兼顾家庭的责任。

He is undertaking arduous scientific research, and at the same time, he also has to balance his family responsibilities.

Describing the challenge of balancing demanding professional and personal commitments.

7

城市正在经历大规模的城市化进程,与此同时,许多传统文化和社区正在面临消失的风险。

The city is undergoing a large-scale urbanization process, and simultaneously, many traditional cultures and communities are facing the risk of disappearing.

Contrasting modernization with the potential loss of heritage.

8

专家们对经济前景持谨慎乐观态度,与此同时,他们也提醒投资者注意潜在的市场波动。

Experts hold a cautiously optimistic view on the economic outlook, while concurrently, they also advise investors to be aware of potential market volatility.

Presenting both positive forecasts and cautionary advice.

1

尽管该项目面临诸多挑战,但其创新性设计仍然获得了国际认可,与此同时,其市场推广策略也受到了广泛好评。

Although the project faces numerous challenges, its innovative design has still received international recognition, and concurrently, its market promotion strategy has also been widely praised.

Connecting project challenges with achievements and marketing success.

2

随着人工智能技术的飞速发展,其在各行各业的应用日益广泛,与此同时,关于算法偏见和数据隐私的伦理讨论也愈发激烈。

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence technology, its applications in various industries are becoming increasingly widespread, and simultaneously, ethical discussions about algorithmic bias and data privacy are also intensifying.

Linking technological progress with complex ethical considerations.

3

这位领导者在公开场合展现出坚定的决心,与此同时,他在幕后也在积极寻求妥协与合作,以化解潜在的政治危机。

This leader demonstrates unwavering determination in public, while concurrently, behind the scenes, he is also actively seeking compromise and cooperation to defuse potential political crises.

Juxtaposing public resolve with private diplomatic efforts.

4

该国的经济增长模式在过去十年中取得了显著成效,与此同时,其对环境可持续性的影响也逐渐显现,引发了深刻的反思。

The country's economic growth model has achieved remarkable results over the past decade, and at the same time, its impact on environmental sustainability has also gradually become apparent, prompting deep reflection.

Analyzing the long-term consequences of economic policies on sustainability.

5

在追求个人自由的同时,社会也必须承担起维护公共秩序的责任,而这两者之间的平衡往往需要精密的权衡与博弈。

While pursuing individual freedom, society must also undertake the responsibility of maintaining public order, and the balance between these two often requires delicate weighing and negotiation.

Exploring the inherent tension and balance between individual liberties and societal order.

6

尽管新的研究成果为理解这一现象提供了新的视角,与此同时,许多长期存在的争议和未解之谜依然存在。

Although new research findings offer new perspectives for understanding this phenomenon, at the same time, many long-standing controversies and unsolved mysteries still persist.

Acknowledging advancements while recognizing persistent complexities.

7

文化遗产的保护工作取得了长足的进步,与此同时,如何将其有效融入现代旅游业并实现可持续发展,仍是一个亟待解决的课题。

Significant progress has been made in the protection of cultural heritage, and concurrently, how to effectively integrate it into modern tourism and achieve sustainable development remains a pressing issue to be addressed.

Connecting heritage preservation with economic development challenges.

8

该公司的战略转型旨在提升市场竞争力,与此同时,其内部组织架构的调整也引发了员工的广泛关注和讨论。

The company's strategic transformation aims to enhance market competitiveness, and simultaneously, the adjustment of its internal organizational structure has also attracted widespread attention and discussion among employees.

Linking strategic business shifts with internal organizational impacts.

1

在后殖民语境下,对国家身份的重塑是一个复杂而持续的过程,与此同时,对历史叙事的批判性反思与重构也成为重要的学术议题。

In the post-colonial context, the reshaping of national identity is a complex and ongoing process, and concurrently, critical reflection and reconstruction of historical narratives have also become significant academic concerns.

Discussing abstract concepts of identity and historical interpretation in a complex context.

2

尽管技术进步为解决全球性挑战提供了前所未有的机遇,但其伴随而来的社会经济不平等和环境代价也不容忽视,而与此同时,全球治理体系的有效性正面临严峻考验。

Although technological advancements offer unprecedented opportunities to address global challenges, the accompanying socioeconomic inequalities and environmental costs cannot be overlooked, and at the same time, the effectiveness of the global governance system is facing severe tests.

Connecting technological progress with multifaceted global problems and governance challenges.

3

艺术作为一种表达方式,在挑战既定规范和激发社会变革的同时,也可能成为维护现有秩序的工具,而与此同时,对艺术本质和功能的哲学探讨则从未停止。

Art, as a mode of expression, while challenging established norms and stimulating social change, can also become a tool for maintaining the existing order, and concurrently, philosophical discussions on the essence and function of art have never ceased.

Exploring the dual nature of art and ongoing philosophical discourse.

4

在后真相时代,事实的客观性受到质疑,公众舆论的形成变得愈发复杂,而与此同时,对权威信息来源的信任危机也进一步加剧了社会的分裂。

In the post-truth era, the objectivity of facts is questioned, and the formation of public opinion becomes increasingly complex, and concurrently, the crisis of trust in authoritative information sources further exacerbates social divisions.

Analyzing the impact of information manipulation on societal cohesion and trust.

5

气候变化带来的生存威胁日益严峻,促使各国加强合作,但与此同时,地缘政治的紧张局势和经济利益的冲突却阻碍了有效的全球气候行动。

The existential threat posed by climate change is increasingly severe, prompting countries to strengthen cooperation, but concurrently, geopolitical tensions and conflicts of economic interest hinder effective global climate action.

Highlighting the paradox of global cooperation being hampered by national interests.

6

解构主义的思潮挑战了传统的意义阐释框架,与此同时,后结构主义对语言和权力关系的分析也深刻地影响了人文科学的研究范式。

Deconstructionist thought challenges traditional frameworks of meaning interpretation, and concurrently, post-structuralist analysis of language and power relations has also profoundly influenced research paradigms in the humanities.

Discussing the impact of complex philosophical movements on academic disciplines.

7

数字鸿沟的扩大加剧了信息获取的不平等,与此同时,对数字素养和批判性思维的培养也显得尤为重要,以应对日益复杂的信息环境。

The widening digital divide exacerbates inequality in information access, and concurrently, the cultivation of digital literacy and critical thinking also becomes particularly important to cope with the increasingly complex information environment.

Connecting technological disparity with the need for educational countermeasures.

8

在追求社会公平和个体权利的同时,我们必须警惕可能出现的权力滥用和群体极化现象,而与此同时,建立健全的监督机制和对话平台则是必不可少的。

While pursuing social equity and individual rights, we must guard against potential abuses of power and phenomena of group polarization, and concurrently, establishing robust oversight mechanisms and dialogue platforms is essential.

Balancing aspirational societal goals with the need for vigilant governance and communication.

Synonyms

同时 并在 同步 一并

Antonyms

先后 继而

Common Collocations

与此同时,...
经济发展,与此同时,环境污染
宣布,与此同时,...
发生,与此同时,...
增长,与此同时,...
努力,与此同时,...
变化,与此同时,...
实施,与此同时,...
挑战,与此同时,...
发展,与此同时,...

Common Phrases

与此同时,...

— This is the standard way to introduce a second event or situation that is happening at the same time as the first.

他正在开会,与此同时,他的助手在处理邮件。

与此同时,另一边...

— Used to contrast or highlight two distinct activities happening simultaneously, often in different locations or contexts.

孩子们在院子里玩耍,与此同时,另一边,奶奶正在厨房里准备晚餐。

与此同时,他也...

— Often used when describing a person's actions or thoughts, indicating that while engaged in one activity, they are also doing or thinking something else.

他认真听讲,与此同时,他也偷偷地记下了重点。

与此同时,情况...

— Used to describe how a situation evolves or changes concurrently with another event or process.

谈判正在进行,与此同时,场外的气氛也变得越来越紧张。

与此同时,人们...

— Describes the collective reaction or actions of people happening at the same time as a specific event or development.

新政策出台,与此同时,人们开始讨论它的影响。

与此同时,我们...

— Used by a speaker or writer to include themselves or their group in the description of simultaneous events.

我们在努力完成项目,与此同时,我们也期待着最终的成功。

与此同时,市场...

— Common in business and economic contexts, describing market trends or reactions occurring concurrently with other events.

公司发布了财报,与此同时,市场对此反应平淡。

与此同时,国际...

— Used in news and international relations to describe simultaneous global events or reactions.

国内发生了重大事件,与此同时,国际社会也对此表示了关注。

与此同时,教育...

— Used when discussing simultaneous developments in the education sector alongside other societal changes.

科技在进步,与此同时,教育方式也需要随之革新。

与此同时,文化...

— Describes concurrent changes or events in the cultural sphere.

经济在发展,与此同时,传统文化也面临着新的挑战。

Often Confused With

与此同时 vs 同时 (tóng shí)

While both mean 'at the same time', '与此同时' is more strictly a conjunctive phrase linking two clauses, often with a more formal or narrative tone. '同时' can also function as an adverb and is more general.

与此同时 vs 并且 (bìng qiě)

'并且' means 'and' or 'furthermore', connecting ideas or adding information, but it doesn't necessarily imply simultaneity in the same way '与此同时' does.

与此同时 vs 然后 (ránhòu)

'然后' means 'then' or 'afterwards', indicating a sequence of events, the opposite of simultaneity.

Easily Confused

与此同时 vs 同时 (tóng shí)

Both words convey the idea of 'at the same time'.

'与此同时' is specifically used as a conjunctive phrase to link two complete clauses, emphasizing the parallel nature of the events. It often carries a more formal or narrative tone. '同时' is more versatile; it can be an adverb modifying a verb or a conjunction connecting phrases or clauses, and it is generally less formal than '与此同时'.

他正在工作,与此同时,他在学习新技能。(Formal, linking two distinct activities) vs. 他同时工作和学习。(More general, adverbial)

与此同时 vs 并且 (bìng qiě)

Both are conjunctions used to connect ideas.

'并且' is used to add information or connect similar ideas, meaning 'and' or 'furthermore'. It does not inherently imply that the connected events are happening at the same time. '与此同时' specifically denotes simultaneity.

他很高,并且很聪明。(He is tall, and also smart - attributes) vs. 他在看书,与此同时,他在听音乐。(He is reading, and at the same time, he is listening to music - simultaneous actions)

与此同时 vs 然后 (ránhòu)

Both are used to connect parts of a sentence or narrative.

'然后' means 'then' or 'afterwards', indicating a sequence of events. It is used for actions that happen one after another. '与此同时' indicates that two events are happening concurrently.

我吃完饭,然后去看电影。(I finished eating, then I went to watch a movie - sequential) vs. 我在吃饭,与此同时,他在看电视。(I am eating, and at the same time, he is watching TV - simultaneous)

与此同时 vs 反而 (fǎn'ér)

Both can introduce a contrasting element.

'反而' means 'instead', 'on the contrary', or 'rather'. It indicates an outcome that is contrary to expectation or the opposite of what was previously stated. '与此同时' simply indicates that two things are happening at the same time, not necessarily in opposition.

他没有成功,反而变得更努力了。(He didn't succeed, instead he became more diligent - contrary outcome) vs. 他在努力学习,与此同时,他的朋友在休息。(He is studying hard, and at the same time, his friend is resting - simultaneous, not necessarily contrary)

与此同时 vs 然而 (rán'ér)

Both can introduce a new, related idea.

'然而' means 'however' or 'but', used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict a previous statement. '与此同时' is about simultaneity, not contrast or contradiction.

天气很好,然而,我们不能出去。(The weather is good, however, we cannot go out - contrast) vs. 他在看书,与此同时,他在听音乐。(He is reading, and at the same time, he is listening to music - simultaneous)

Sentence Patterns

A2

Subject + Verb Phrase 1, 与此同时 + Subject + Verb Phrase 2.

我吃饭,与此同时,他看电视。

B1

Clause 1 (Event A). 与此同时, Clause 2 (Event B).

他正在努力学习。与此同时,他的妹妹在公园里玩耍。

B1

Situation 1 + ,与此同时 + Situation 2.

外面在下雨,与此同时,屋子里很暖和。

B2

Complex Event 1 + ,与此同时 + Complex Event 2.

公司正在推出新产品,与此同时,他们正在进行大规模的广告宣传。

B2

Descriptive Clause + ,与此同时 + Result/Consequence Clause.

该地区正经历干旱,与此同时,国际援助组织正在协调提供紧急水源。

C1

Assertion/Statement + ,与此同时 + Contrasting/Parallel Assertion.

尽管面临挑战,与此同时,项目仍然取得了成功。

C1

Abstract Concept A + ,与此同时 + Abstract Concept B.

文化交流日益频繁,与此同时,文化冲突的风险也随之增加。

C2

Complex Context A + ,与此同时 + Complex Consequence/Development B.

在后殖民语境下,身份重塑是一个持续过程,与此同时,历史叙事反思也成为重要议题。

Word Family

Related

同时
同步
此刻
当下
期间

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal writing and news, moderate in general descriptive language.

Common Mistakes
  • Using '与此同时' for sequential events. 我吃完饭,然后去看电影。

    The original sentence '我吃完饭,与此同时,我去看电影' is incorrect because eating finishes before going to the movie. '与此同时' implies simultaneous action, not sequence. '然后' (then) is the correct conjunction here.

  • Using '与此同时' in overly casual conversation. 我正在看电视,我妈妈在做饭呢。

    Saying '我正在看电视,与此同时,我妈妈在做饭' can sound overly formal or stiff in a casual chat. Simpler phrasing or just connecting the ideas without a strong conjunction is often more natural for informal settings.

  • Incorrect placement or lack of context. 我在公园散步,与此同时,天气很好。

    Simply stating '与此同时,天气很好' lacks context. The conjunction needs to connect to a preceding event or situation. The corrected sentence provides the necessary context: walking in the park and the weather being good, both happening at the same time.

  • Confusing it with cause and effect. 他考试不及格,所以他很伤心。

    The sentence '他考试不及格,与此同时,他很伤心' implies the sadness happened independently at the same time as failing. However, sadness is a direct result of failing. '所

Tips

Emphasize Simultaneity

Use '与此同时' when you want to clearly signal that two events or states are happening at the exact same time. It's more emphatic than a simple 'and' and highlights the concurrent nature of the actions.

Connect Two Clauses

Remember that '与此同时' typically connects two independent clauses or sentences. It should follow the first event/situation and introduce the second one that is occurring concurrently.

Formal and Descriptive

This conjunction is well-suited for formal writing, news, and descriptive narratives. For casual conversations, simpler alternatives like '同时' or even just connecting sentences might be more natural.

Parallel or Contrasting

You can use '与此同时' to describe events happening in parallel (side-by-side) or to highlight contrasting situations that occur at the same moment, adding depth to your description.

Break Down the Characters

Remembering the literal meaning 'and this same time' (与此同时) can help solidify the concept of simultaneity. Visualizing two clocks showing the same time can also be a helpful mnemonic.

Construct Sentences

Actively create sentences describing what you and a friend are doing at the same time, or what's happening in two different places simultaneously. This hands-on practice is key to mastering its usage.

Listen for the Rhythm

Pay attention to the sound and rhythm of 'yǔ cǐ tóng shí' when listening to native speakers. Recognizing its pronunciation will help you identify it in spoken contexts.

Identify the Connections

When reading, look for '与此同时' and try to pinpoint the two distinct events or situations it connects. Understanding this relationship is crucial for comprehending the full picture.

Don't Confuse with Sequence

A common mistake is using it for sequential events. Always ensure the two actions are truly happening at the same time, not one after the other.

Consider '同时'

For less formal situations or when '与此同时' feels too strong, '同时' (tóng shí) is a very close and often interchangeable alternative, especially when functioning as an adverb.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Break it down: '与' (and), '此' (this), '同' (same), '时' (time). Imagine 'and this same time' happening. You can visualize two clocks showing the exact same time, with an arrow connecting them, symbolizing 'at this same time'.

Visual Association

Picture two parallel train tracks running side-by-side. The trains on these tracks represent two events happening simultaneously. The phrase '与此同时' acts as the bridge connecting these two parallel tracks.

Word Web

Conjunction Simultaneous Parallel events Meanwhile At the same time Concurrent Formal usage Connecting clauses

Challenge

Write three sentences using '与此同时' to describe what different family members are doing in your house right now. Then, try to find a news article in Chinese and identify instances where '与此同时' is used, noting the two events it connects.

Word Origin

The phrase '与此同时' is composed of several characters that contribute to its meaning. '与' (yǔ) means 'and' or 'with'. '此' (cǐ) means 'this' or 'here'. '同' (tóng) means 'same' or 'together'. '时' (shí) means 'time'. Together, they literally convey 'and this same time', essentially meaning 'at this same time'. The construction is common in Classical Chinese and has carried over into modern Mandarin.

Original meaning: The literal meaning is 'and this same time', emphasizing the concurrency of 'this' (the current moment or situation) with another event.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

The use of '与此同时' is generally neutral and does not carry specific sensitivities unless the content it connects is itself sensitive. It's a functional conjunction for describing temporal relationships.

In English, 'meanwhile', 'at the same time', 'simultaneously', and 'concurrently' are close equivalents. The choice often depends on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

News reports often use '与此同时' to link international events with domestic developments. Historical documentaries frequently employ it to describe parallel societal changes during significant eras. Literary works might use it to create dramatic irony by juxtaposing a character's personal struggle with a larger unfolding event.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Describing parallel events in a narrative.

  • 他正在工作,与此同时,他在学习。
  • 她在大城市生活,与此同时,她的家人住在乡村。
  • 电影的高潮正在上演,与此同时,观众们屏息以待。

Reporting news and current events.

  • 政府宣布新政策,与此同时,国际社会表示关注。
  • 经济数据发布,与此同时,股市出现波动。
  • 灾难发生,与此同时,救援工作立即展开。

Comparing or contrasting simultaneous situations.

  • 他非常高兴,与此同时,他的朋友却很沮丧。
  • 公司利润增长,与此同时,员工福利却在减少。
  • 这个地区一片繁荣,与此同时,另一个地区却面临贫困。

Explaining complex processes in science or technology.

  • 实验正在进行,与此同时,数据正在被收集和分析。
  • 新技术被开发,与此同时,其潜在风险也在被评估。
  • 系统在运行,与此同时,后台也在进行维护。

Formal speeches and presentations.

  • 我们今天讨论了许多重要议题,与此同时,我们也制定了未来的行动计划。
  • 项目取得了初步成功,与此同时,我们也认识到未来的挑战。
  • 感谢大家的参与,与此同时,我也希望大家能从中有所收获。

Conversation Starters

"What were you doing at 8 PM last night? I was watching a movie, and '与此同时' what was happening with you?"

"Tell me about your city. What's happening downtown, and '与此同时', what's happening in the suburbs?"

"When you're studying, what else is usually going on around you? Describe two things happening '与此同时'."

"Imagine you're cooking dinner. What are you doing, and '与此同时', what might your pet be doing?"

"Think about a busy market. What are vendors selling, and '与此同时', what are customers doing?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you were juggling multiple tasks. Use '与此同时' to explain what you were doing concurrently.

Write about a significant news event. Describe the main event and then use '与此同时' to describe a related or contrasting development.

Imagine two characters in a story. Describe what each character is doing at the exact same moment, using '与此同时' to connect their actions.

Reflect on a societal trend. What is happening, and '与此同时', what are the consequences or counter-trends?

Describe your ideal day. What activities are happening, and '与此同时', what other enjoyable things are occurring?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'与此同时' (yǔ cǐ tóng shí) literally breaks down as 'and' (与) + 'this' (此) + 'same' (同) + 'time' (时). So, it conveys the idea of 'and at this same time', effectively meaning 'at the same time' or 'simultaneously'.

'与此同时' is generally considered to be more formal than its simpler counterpart '同时' (tóng shí). It is commonly found in written Chinese, news reports, academic papers, and formal speeches. While it can be used in spoken Chinese, it might sound a bit stiff in very casual conversations.

No, '与此同时' strictly indicates that two events or situations are happening concurrently or in parallel. Using it for sequential events (one after another) would be incorrect. For sequential events, you should use conjunctions like '然后' (ránhòu - then) or '接着' (jiēzhe - next).

The most common English translations are 'at the same time', 'simultaneously', and 'meanwhile'. 'Concurrently' is also a good equivalent, especially in formal contexts.

Yes, while both mean 'at the same time', '与此同时' is primarily used as a conjunctive phrase to link two clauses, often with a more formal or narrative tone. '同时' is more versatile; it can function as an adverb (e.g., 'he simultaneously studies and works') or a conjunction, and it is generally less formal and more broadly applicable.

It usually appears at the beginning of the second clause or sentence, connecting it to the preceding one. For example: 'Clause 1, 与此同时, Clause 2.'

Yes, absolutely. It's very effective for highlighting contrasting situations that are happening concurrently. For instance, one person might be celebrating while another is facing hardship, and '与此同时' can be used to link these two parallel but opposite circumstances.

Similar alternatives include '同时' (tóng shí), which is more general, and in certain contexts, you might use phrases like '一起' (yīqǐ - together) or '一并' (yī bìng - all together), though these have slightly different nuances. For contrasting ideas, '然而' (rán'ér - however) might be used if the events are not simultaneous.

Try constructing sentences where you describe what you are doing and then, using '与此同时', describe what someone else or something else is doing at the exact same moment. Also, read Chinese news articles and identify how this conjunction is used to connect different pieces of information.

While the core meaning remains 'at the same time', the tone can be influenced by the context. In news reporting, it sounds objective. In literature, it can add dramatic effect. In academic writing, it contributes to precision. Its inherent formality is consistent, but its effect can vary.

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