Guide 29 / 200 5 alternatives 2-minute read

Better ways to say “At the same time”

Four words for "also" — or "but."

i · Why avoid itTwo lines, no filler

Sometimes this phrase literally means "simultaneously." More often it's a conjunction in disguise — you mean "also" or "but." Use the shorter word and the sentence lands.

ii · Before & afterDrop-in demo

Before

The plan is bold. At the same time, it's risky.

After

The plan is bold but risky.

iii · The alternatives5 ways out

01

But neutral

concession / contrast

It's fast but expensive.
02

Also neutral

addition

Also, the API needs work.
03

Simultaneously formal

genuine co-occurrence

The server simultaneously logs and retries.
04

Meanwhile neutral

parallel narration

Meanwhile, the team shipped v2.
05

However formal

formal concession

However, the margin is thin.

iv · Brew tipKeep this one

Ask if you mean "while," "but," or "also." Use that word instead.