while

About 50.45 uses per million words.

Meaning

1. noun An uncertain duration of time, a period of time.

   It’s a long while since anyone lived there, so it’s a ruin now.

2. noun An uncertain long period of time

   I'm afraid it will be a while until the doctor can see you.

3. noun An uncertain short moment.
4. conjunction During the same time that.

   He was sleeping while I was singing.

5. conjunction Although.

   This case, while interesting, is a bit frustrating.

6. conjunction Until.

   I'll wait while you've finished painting.

7. conjunction As long as.

   While you're at school you may live at home.

8. preposition Until.

Similar words

piece spell meanwhile moment whilst then whereas besides once after

Often followed by

the he in it i they a we she others

Word family

whiled whiles whiling