While vs. Whilst: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 5, 2023
"While" and "Whilst" both mean during the time that, but "While" is more commonly used in American English, whereas "Whilst" is archaic and more common in British English.
Key Differences
"While" and "Whilst" serve similar functions in language. Both can mean 'during the time that' or 'at the same time as.' For example, "While I was out," and "Whilst I was out," are interchangeable and signify the same duration of time when an event occurred.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
From a historical perspective, "While" has been in use longer than "Whilst." The latter evolved as a variation of the former. Despite their origins, both words developed similar meanings, with "Whilst" becoming more prevalent in British English and "While" maintaining broader usage in both American and British contexts.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
When it comes to modern usage, "While" is universally understood and accepted in both American and British English. "Whilst," on the other hand, can sound old-fashioned or overly formal, especially to American ears. Although "Whilst" is still used in some formal British contexts, "While" is generally more widespread.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
In addition to denoting time, "While" can also be used to highlight contrast between two situations or statements, similar to the word "whereas." For example, "While I like coffee, my sister prefers tea." "Whilst" can be used in a similar manner, but it's less common.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
Both "While" and "Whilst" can be used as conjunctions, prepositions, or adverbs, depending on the context of the sentence. Their adaptability showcases their linguistic versatility, although "While" is the preferred choice in most modern contexts, especially in American English.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Modern Usage
Predominant in American and British English.
Common in British English, archaic in American.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
Additional Usage
Can denote contrast (similar to "whereas").
Less commonly used for contrast.
Janet White
Nov 05, 2023
Parts of Speech
Conjunction, preposition, adverb.
Can also be a conjunction, preposition, adverb.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 05, 2023
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While and Whilst Definitions
Whilst
Although; despite the fact that.
Whilst I understand your point, I disagree.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 20, 2023
While
Although; despite the fact that.
While it's sunny, it's still cold outside.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 20, 2023
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While
A period of time
Stay for a while.
Sang all the while. See Usage Note at awhile.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
The time, effort, or trouble taken in doing something
The project wasn't worth my while.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
In spite of the fact that; although
While that guitar may look nice, it's not a very good instrument.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Whilst
During the whole, or until the end, of the time that; as long as, at the same time.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
An uncertain duration of time, a period of time.
He lectured for quite a long while.
It’s a long while since anyone lived there, so it’s a ruin now.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
During the same time that.
He was sleeping while I was singing.
Driving while intoxicated is against the law.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
Although.
This case, while interesting, is a bit frustrating.
While I would love to help, I am very busy at the moment.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
To pass (time) idly.
I whiled away the hours whilst waiting for him to arrive
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
(transitive) To occupy or entertain (someone) in order to let time pass.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
Space of time, or continued duration, esp. when short; a time; as, one while we thought him innocent.
This mighty queen may no while endure.
[Some guest that] hath outside his welcome while,And tells the jest without the smile.
I will go forth and breathe the air a while.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
That which requires time; labor; pains.
Satan . . . cast him how he might quite her while.
And so on us at whiles it falls, to claimPowers that we dread.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
To cause to pass away pleasantly or without irksomeness or disgust; to spend or pass; - usually followed by away.
The lovely lady whiled the hours away.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
During the time that; as long as; whilst; at the same time that; as, while I write, you sleep.
Use your memory; you will sensibly experience a gradual improvement, while you take care not to overload it.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
Until; till.
I may be conveyed into your chamber;I'll lie under your bed while midnight.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
While
A period of indeterminate length (usually short) marked by some action or condition;
He was here for a little while
I need to rest for a piece
A spell of good weather
A patch of bad weather
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
FAQs
Can both words denote contrast?
Yes, though "While" is more commonly used for this purpose.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
Are "While" and "Whilst" interchangeable?
Generally, yes, but "Whilst" is more formal and common in British English.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
When would one use "Whilst" over "While"?
In formal contexts or when following British English conventions.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
Is "Whilst" seen as old-fashioned?
In American English, yes. In British English, it's formal but not necessarily outdated.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 05, 2023
Do they have similar grammatical functions?
Both can be conjunctions, prepositions, or adverbs.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
How do the two words differ in pronunciation?
"While" rhymes with "mile," and "Whilst" has an "st" sound at the end.
Sara Rehman
Nov 05, 2023
Is "While" used to denote a period of time?
Yes, indicating something happening during that time.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
Is "Whilst" preferred in any specific genres?
It may be found in historical or period literature.
Harlon Moss
Nov 05, 2023
Is "Whilst" used in American English?
Rarely. It's seen as archaic and overly formal.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
Which word is more prevalent in modern texts?
"While" is more universally used in modern contexts.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
How does one choose between the two?
Consider audience, region, formality, and personal style.
Harlon Moss
Nov 05, 2023
Do style guides have a preference?
American style guides typically prefer "While."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 05, 2023
Are there any nuances in meaning between the two?
The core meanings are the same, but nuances arise from regional and stylistic preferences.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
Does "Whilst" sound formal to British ears?
It's more formal than "While," but not overly so.
Sara Rehman
Nov 05, 2023
Which word is more prevalent in journalism?
"While" is more commonly used in journalistic writing.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 05, 2023
Are there regions in the UK where "Whilst" is more common?
Usage can vary, but "Whilst" is generally accepted across the UK.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 05, 2023
Is it incorrect to use "Whilst" in American English?
Not incorrect, but it may sound out of place or old-fashioned.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 05, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
