while
yl
While (noun) means a period of time, especially one of uncertain or moderate length. Example: “We waited a while before the doctor called us in.”
noun
1
A period of time, especially one of uncertain or moderate length.
"We waited a while before the doctor called us in."
"It's been a while since I last saw her."
"Sit down and rest for a while; the kettle will boil soon."
conj
1
During the same time that something else happens.
"She read a book while waiting for the bus."
"While you were out, a delivery arrived."
"The baby fell asleep while we were driving along the motorway."
2
Used to introduce a contrast, similar to "whereas" or "although".
"While I agree with most of the plan, I still have concerns about the budget."
"While he's talented, he lacks experience."
"Some people love city life, while others prefer the quiet of the countryside."
How to use while
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA stretch of time, or a word meaning "during" or "although" depending on context.
Common pairings
a short while
worth your while
once in a while
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Word forms
- Plural
- whiles
- Third person singular
- whiles
- Past tense
- whiled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
We waited a _____ before the doctor called us in.
Etymology
From Old English hwil, "a space of time" — ultimately from a very old root meaning "rest" or "pause".
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for while
See all rhymes for while →Frequently asked questions
What does “while” mean?
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.
How do you pronounce “while”?
“While” is pronounced yl (/ʍaɪl/ in IPA).
How do you use “while” in a sentence?
Here is “while” used in a sentence: “We waited a while before the doctor called us in.”
What is another word for “while”?
Words with a similar meaning to “while” include as, when and whilom.
What is the opposite of “while”?
The opposite of “while” — its antonyms — are since and until.
What part of speech is “while”?
Depending on how it is used, “while” can be a noun and a conjunction.
Where does the word “while” come from?
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".
Is “while” a common word?
“While” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between 'a while' and 'awhile'?
'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.
What is the difference between 'while' as a noun and a conjunction?
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.
How long is 'a while'?
'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.
What does 'worth your while' mean?
'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.
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