A2conjunction2K

While

UK /["/waɪl/"]/US /["/waɪl/"]/

Definition

during the time that something is happening; at the same time as something else is happening

In simple words: A word used to talk about something happening at the same time as something else.

Examples

  • We must have been burgled while we were asleep.
  • Her parents died while she was still at school.
  • While I was waiting at the bus stop, three buses went by in the opposite direction.
  • You can go swimming while I'm having lunch.
  • Shoes mended while you wait *(= on a shop sign)*
  • While Tom's very good at science, his brother is absolutely hopeless.
  • Some people work better to music while others do not.
  • While I am willing to help, I do not have much time available.
  • ‘I'm just going to buy some postcards.’ ‘Can you get me some stamps while you're at it?’

Usage notes

Use 'while' to show that two things happen at the same time. It is more formal than 'when' and is best used in written or spoken contexts where you want to emphasize simultaneous actions.

Grammar pattern

while + clause

Memory hint

Think of 'while' as two actions sharing a 'mile' together.

Collocations

  • while you were sleeping
  • while he was gone
  • while waiting for a bus

Synonyms

  • when

Antonyms

  • whereas
  • however

Common mistakes

  • Using 'while' instead of 'although' in contrary contexts.
  • Confusing 'while' with 'during' — they are used differently.
  • Not using a comma before 'while' when starting a sentence.