JLPT N3

～ないうちに

Before (something happens)

Structure

Verb plain negative form + うちに

This expression means to do something while a certain condition has not yet materialized, or before a particular state changes or disappears.

忘れないうちにメモしておこう。

Let's make a note before I forget.

Confusing with 『～うちに』 (positive form) which means 'while something is happening'.

Think of it as 'while not X' or 'before X happens'.

Import an article and tap any sentence using it. The explanation comes back about the sentence in front of you, not a textbook example.