Simultaneous tasks with "yibian"

When we want to talk about multi-tasking, we can use 一边(yībiān).

Structure

To express that one thing is done whilst doing something else, the word 一边 (yībiān) is used.

Subject + 一边 + Verb， + 一边 + Verb

Note that you sometimes see 一边 shortened to 边 as well, which has a less formal feel.

Examples

• 我 一边 看 电视，一边 吃 东西。I watch TV while I eat (I watch TV whilst I eat something.)
• 他们 一边 唱歌， 一边 跳舞，真 热闹！They dance while they sing, real exciting! (They dance sing whilst they dance, really exciting!)
• 你 会 一边 拍头 一边 揉 肚子 吗？Can you pat your head while you rub your belly? (Can you pat your head whilst you rub your belly?)
• 咱们 边 吃 边 聊 吧。Let's eat and talk. (Let's eat whilst we chat.)

Sources and further reading

Books

• Integrated Chinese: Level 1, Part 1 (3rd ed) (pp. 207) →buy
• New Practical Chinese Reader 3 (新实用汉语课本3) (pp. 17) →buy