English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
At the same time
Meaning
"At the same time" is an idiom that means "at the same moment" or " simultaneously." It refers to a situation where two or more things happen at the exact same time.
Usage
- She finished her work and left the office at the same time as her colleague.
- The concert started and the fireworks exploded at the same time, creating a stunning visual display.
- We decided to take a road trip and planned our route at the same time.
- The two friends completed their marathon run at the same time, crossing the finish line hand in hand.
- He proposed to her on their anniversary, which coincided with the full moon, making it a special moment for both of them.
Roots and History
The idiom "at the same time" dates back to Middle English and has been used in various contexts throughout history. Its literal meaning is "at the same moment," but its figurative meaning has evolved over time to refer to a situation where two or more things happen at the same time. The idiom may have roots in the early Christian tradition of baptism by immersion, where the candidate was submerged in water and then brought back up at the same time as Jesus was resurrected.
Synonyms in English
- At the same moment
- Simultaneously
- In the same instant
- All at once
- Instantaneously
Synonyms in other languages
- 同時に (Japanese)
- 동시간에 (Korean)
- 똑같이 (Turkish)
- 동시에 (Arabic)
- الوقت المساعدي (Arabic)