When-While | Commonly Confused Words
Special Offer Special Offer
0d : 00h : 00m : 00s

Master confusing words with ease

When vs. While

When

/wen/
Used to ask about or refer to the time of something happening

Examples:

'What did you do when you were away?' she asked.When we met, we talked about poetry, music and art."And also when Madame, here, shall have crossed over into England."

Synonyms:

This word has no synonyms

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

While

/waɪl/
Means during the time that something else happens

Examples:

Tom held the part in place while Al tightened the screws.They sat together in silence for a while.Helen poured some more champagne while Anne called Allen.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • When is often about timing or a specific point in time.
  • While generally refers to two actions happening at the same time.
  • Remember when as a question word asking at what time? and while as a conjunction linking two actions.
  • Use when if you can replace it with at what time.
  • While suggests an overlap in time between activities or events.
© 2025 Lithium Lab Pte Ltd