Explanation
Expresses doing something while doing another; 'while', 'on the occasion of'.
Formation
Verb (dictionary or -ます stem) + がてら
Detailed explanation
The ～がてら grammar point is used to express doing something else in the middle of or on the occasion of another activity. Often used with verbs of movement or activities that easily combine with a second action.
Examples
散歩がてらに郵便局へ行った。
Sanpo gatera ni yūbinkyoku e itta.
I went to the post office while taking a walk.
買い物がてらに友達に会いに行った。
Kaimono gatera ni tomodachi ni ai ni itta.
I went to see a friend while doing some shopping.
ジョギングがてらに新聞を買いに行った。
Jogingu gatera ni shinbun o kai ni itta.
I went to buy a newspaper while jogging.
公園でピクニックがてら読書をした。
Kōen de pikunikku gatera dokusho o shita.
I read a book while having a picnic in the park.
Practice
Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.