while
noun
Phrases of while noun
- a while
a period of time
• I plan to take a break for a while.
conjunction
Definitions of while conjunction
time
- A2formal
during the period that something is happening, or at the same time as something else
I read the book while you were drying your hair.
While visiting Italy, I made sure to see Alessandro.
I thought I heard him come in while we were eating dinner.
contrast
- B2formal
despite the fact that; although
While I acknowledge he's not perfect in many ways, I genuinely like him.
While I fully understand your perspective, I also partially agree with Michael's view.
While the product is popular, some customers complain about its durability.
- B1
in contrast with the fact that; but
He earns £50,000 per year, while I only make a meager £20,000!
Tom is extremely outgoing and self-assured, while Katy is timid and reserved.
I do all of the housework, while he only occasionally washes the dishes.
Idioms
- all the while
throughout a particular period of time; continuously from beginning to end.
• He pretended to be listening, but all the while he was actually looking at his phone.
Phrasal Verbs of while
- while something away
to pass the time leisurely, often because there is nothing pressing to attend to or in anticipation of another event
• We whiled away the time in the park, enjoying the sunshine and gentle breeze.