During the same time with 〜間(に)
Grammar: Time & Sequence » Order, before / after / while
間(に) joins two clauses to state that the second (main) clause takes place at the same time as the first (subordinate) clause.
The clauses may have different subjects.
間 may attach to a noun, adjective, or verb. The verb before 間 is normally non-past 〜て＋いる or いる.
When two clauses are joined by 間, they typically cover the same span of time. When に follows 間, the main clause occurs within the same time as the subordinate clause.
English counterparts are “during (the time when)” and “while”.
See also
- For concurrent events, 〜ながら is used.
- When refering to a period of time, especially when taking advantage of an opportunity, 〜うちに is used.
- When contrasting with another period of time, 〜うちは is used.
Further Reading
- Makino, Seiichi and Michio Tsutsui. A Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar, The Japan Times Ltd., 1989, pp. 67–71
