while

whileconjunction

While either points to a period of time during which something else happens, or joins two facts that go against each other.

1. during the time thatduring the time that something is happening

   A while clause points to a period of time, often with a continuous verb, during which the action in the main clause happens. It can come first, with a comma after it, or after the main clause, with no comma.

   • While you were out, Ana called.
   • I read a book while I waited for the bus.
   • Be careful while you're cutting the bread.
   • Someone stole her bag while she was asleep.

   Synonyms when (while points to a whole period; when can point to a single moment inside it)

   Compare when (while stresses that two things go on at the same time; when simply names the time); as

2. althoughalthough, at the same time

   Used to link two facts that go against each other, without suggesting that one causes the other.

   • While I understand your point, I don't agree.
   • The north is cold, while the south stays warm all year.
   • Sara enjoys cities, while her brother prefers the countryside.

   Synonyms although; whereas (whereas is more formal and used mainly for contrast, never for time)

   For translators (sense 2)

   Meaning across languages This contrastive use is unrelated to time; a translator should not automatically reach for the word for during here.

See also although (the more general word for a contrast)