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:
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.