01
zugleich
simultaneously
At exactly the same time; at once.
example
Die beiden Läufer überquerten die Ziellinie zugleich.
The two runners crossed the finish line simultaneously.
zugleich
simultaneously / also
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of 'zu' and 'gleich'. It expresses that two things come together ('zu') at the same moment or in the same state ('gleich').
EXAMPLE
Er ist mein Kollege und zugleich mein bester Freund.
He is my colleague and also my best friend.
Sentence position
As an adverb, 'zugleich' (simultaneously/also) can stand at the beginning of a sentence and then causes inversion (verb in position 2). But it can also stand in the middle of the sentence, usually after the conjugated verb.
EXAMPLE
Zugleich wurde ihm klar, dass er einen Fehler gemacht hatte.
At the same time, he realized that he had made a mistake.
Context clue
The meaning depends on the context. If 'zugleich' (simultaneously) refers to two actions, it means 'at the same time'. If it connects two qualities or roles of a person or thing, it means 'in addition' or 'also'.
EXAMPLE
Er kam an und ging zugleich wieder.
He arrived and left again at the same time.
Compare with
zugleich vs auch
also / even
'auch' and 'zugleich' can both express an additional quality or function. 'auch' adds something in a general way. 'zugleich' often means that two things happen at the same time, or that something also has another role at the same time. That is why 'zugleich' is more precise when time or simultaneity is important. Learners confuse the words because 'zugleich' can sometimes feel similar to 'auch'. Remember: 'auch' simply means 'also'; 'zugleich' often means 'also and at the same time'.
zugleich
Die Eltern planen die Reise und buchen zugleich die Unterkunft.
The parents plan the trip and book the accommodation at the same time.
auch
Zu Hause hat meine Nachbarin auch meinen Freund begrüßt.
At home, my neighbor also greeted my friend.
In real life
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