〜ながら
2 Senses1 / 2
Formation
N5TimeNeutral
Meaning
To do two things simultaneously / to do B while doing A. The same person does actions A and B at the same time. Momentary verbs generally cannot be used.
Note
A and B must be performed by the same subject. Action B (the main clause) is the primary action, while action A (attached to 'nagara') is secondary or background. The verb attached to 'nagara' must be a durative action, not a momentary one (like 'shinu' or 'ochiru'). It is attached to the Masu-stem (Renyoukei).
Examples
日本語の勉強をしながらテレビを見ます。
I watch TV while studying Japanese.
音楽を聞きながら走っています。
I'm running while listening to music.
相手の話を聞きながらメモを取る。
I take notes while listening to the other person.
コーヒーを飲みながら本を読む。
I read a book while drinking coffee.
歩きながら食べるのは良くない。
It's not good to eat while walking.