1
as in space
an indefinite but usually short period of time
we stayed at the fair for a while longer
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
2
as in effort
the active use of energy in producing a result
it's not worth my while to fix it, so we'll get a new one
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in when
at or during the time that
pay attention while I'm explaining how the new phone system works
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of while
Kate Bradshaw, The Mercury News, 3 Mar. 2025
That scene was winding down anyway, at that point, at least for a while.
—David Browne, Rolling Stone, 2 Mar. 2025
The unaccountable bureaucracy and bloated government that find a home there, and the public and private corruption that go along with them, face serious scrutiny and genuine antagonism for the first time in a while.
—Jack Butler, National Review, 2 Mar. 2025
Still, for a while, the notion that the then Weather Underground was involved seems to have stuck with many who heard the news.
—Jody Mamone, Hartford Courant, 2 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for while
Noun
There are a few peaceful stopping points, including a bench cozy enough to coax anyone with a book to disappear for a while.
—Kate Bradshaw, The Mercury News, 3 Mar. 2025
That scene was winding down anyway, at that point, at least for a while.
—David Browne, Rolling Stone, 2 Mar. 2025
The unaccountable bureaucracy and bloated government that find a home there, and the public and private corruption that go along with them, face serious scrutiny and genuine antagonism for the first time in a while.
—Jack Butler, National Review, 2 Mar. 2025
Still, for a while, the notion that the then Weather Underground was involved seems to have stuck with many who heard the news.
—Jody Mamone, Hartford Courant, 2 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for while
Recent Examples of Synonyms for while
Noun
-
By replicating real-world crisis scenarios, these simulations give responders a low-risk space to practice decision-making, communication, and emotional regulation.—
Edward Segal,
Forbes,
9 Mar. 2025
-
Exceptional millwork around the fireplace and mantle, plus crown molding, add elegance to this space.—
James Alexander,
Hartford Courant,
9 Mar. 2025
Noun
-
Elon Musk's Tesla has become a rallying point for protestors outraged with how the world's richest man has insinuated himself into President Trump's administration and led efforts to slash government agencies.—
April Rubin,
Axios,
28 Feb. 2025
-
This transformation requires a conscious effort to rethink decision-making, leadership development and financial strategy.—
Cheryl Robinson,
Forbes,
28 Feb. 2025
Noun
-
Co-presenting the Animated Feature and Animated Short categories, the unlikely duo navigated their bits and at various moments, sweetly linked arms or hands.—
Elizabeth Leonard,
People.com,
2 Mar. 2025
-
Getting into Gillis’ monologue, like Dave Chappelle and many other stand-ups who’ve hosted over the years the comedian kicked off his second stint by re-hashing some of his regular bits, as well as introducing some new jokes to the Studio 8H crowd.—
Harrison Richlin,
IndieWire,
2 Mar. 2025
Noun
-
Shoppers swear by them for walking, running, lifting weights, air travel, and even long days on their feet at work.—
Miles Walls,
Better Homes & Gardens,
9 Mar. 2025
-
Health providers were lauded as heroes at the start of the pandemic, and some even reported improved wellbeing at work, citing more time spent with patients and less spent on paperwork.—
Maya Goldman,
Axios,
9 Mar. 2025
Conjunction
-
But scientists and doctors say things aren’t that simple — and a belief that exposing children to marijuana, either directly or indirectly, is harmless isn’t supported by the facts.—
Daniel M. Jimenez,
The Cannifornian,
22 June 2017
-
But with a full and volatile season behind them, the two have grown closer, prompting check-ins from Bradford last month, seeking tidbits from his coach who watched OTA practices on a tablet from his Kentucky retreat.—
Chad Graff,
Twin Cities,
15 June 2017
Cite this Entry
“While.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/while. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.
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