while

The word “while” means a period of time, especially one of uncertain or moderate length. In plain terms, a stretch of time, or a word meaning "during" or "although" depending on context.

“While” is pronounced yl (/ʍaɪl/ in IPA).

Here is “while” used in a sentence: “We waited a while before the doctor called us in.”

Words with a similar meaning to “while” include as, when and whilom.

The opposite of “while” — its antonyms — are since and until.

Depending on how it is used, “while” can be a noun and a conjunction.

The word “while” comes from Old English. From Old English hwil, "a space of time" — ultimately from a very old root meaning "rest" or "pause".

“While” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

'A while' is two words, an article plus the noun 'while,' meaning a period of time, and it can follow a preposition: 'for a while,' 'after a while.' 'Awhile' is one word, an adverb meaning 'for a short time': 'stay awhile.' If 'for' fits before it, use two words.

As a noun, 'while' means a period of time, as in 'wait here a while.' As a conjunction, it means during the time that, or whereas, as in 'read while you wait' or 'she likes tea, while he prefers coffee.' The noun names a stretch of time; the conjunction links two ideas.

'A while' is deliberately vague, meaning an unspecified, usually moderate stretch of time. It is longer than a moment but not precisely defined; it might be minutes, hours, or longer depending on context. Phrases like 'quite a while' stretch it out, while 'a little while' shortens it.

'Worth your while' means worth the time and effort you would spend, so you will gain enough to justify it. If someone says a trip will be 'worth your while,' they mean the reward outweighs the trouble. Here 'while' keeps its noun sense of time invested in something.