at the same time
Idioms-
Simultaneously, as in We were all scheduled to leave at the same time . This idiom was first recorded in 1526. For synonyms, see at once , def. 1; at one time , def. 1.
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Nevertheless, however, as in Mary agreed with her mother's criticism, but at the same time she wanted to defend her husband's views . [c. 1700]
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
European automakers have been grappling with intense competition and a struggling economy in China at the same time as U.S. tariffs have added costs across the industry.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026
“But at the same time, the U.S. consumer is well positioned to absorb the real income hit from higher gas/energy prices, and AI capex trends show no signs of slowing down.”
From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026
Through electromagnetic or acoustic waves, they can interact with their surroundings at multiple locations at the same time.
From Science Daily • Apr. 13, 2026
They know they are being sold to, but at the same time, these videos are entertainment and often form the backbone to their chats with friends.
From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026
They started burning and smoking at the same time.
From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.