enquanto isso
1. during the time that something else is happening; at the same time
I'll prepare dinner. Meanwhile, you can set the table.
Vou preparar o jantar. Enquanto isso, você pode pôr a mesa.
2. in the intervening time; in the period between two events
The package will arrive next week. Meanwhile, we should plan how to use it.
O pacote chegará na próxima semana. Enquanto isso, devemos planejar como usá-lo.
3. used to introduce a contrasting or related fact
She earned a promotion. Meanwhile, her colleague was laid off.
Ela recebeu uma promoção. Enquanto isso, seu colega foi demitido.
In Brazilian Portuguese, 'enquanto isso' is the most natural and frequently used translation. In Portugal, 'entretanto' is preferred. The word is commonly used in storytelling, instructions, and casual conversation to show parallel actions or time passage. It's particularly prevalent in English-language films and TV shows dubbed or subtitled in Portuguese.
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