While vs. Whilst

While and whilst may confuse learners as they are very similar. In this lesson, we will learn their similarities and differences.

What Is Their Main Difference?

The main difference between 'while' and 'whilst' is in their parts of speech.
'While' can be used as a conjunctive adverb, preposition, adverb, verb, or noun.
'Whilst,' however, can only be used as a conjunction or adverb.

Parts of Speech

As a Conjunction and Adverb

'While' can be used as a conjunctive adverb and 'whilst' can be used as a conjunction. They are used to indicate time or make comparisons. When indicating time, they tend to show two actions that are happening at the same time.

They were playing while their parents weren't home.

Here, we are indicating time.

They were wasting time while we worked hard.

Here, we are making a comparison.

Tip!

'While' and 'whilst' are only interchangeable as adverbs.

As a Preposition

'While' can be used as a preposition; however, note that it is very uncommon. In this case, we use it to indicate the meaning 'until'. Have a look:

I will have to wait while Monday for my test results.

It will take while next week.

As a Noun

'While' as a noun can be used to indicate a period of time. To use it to show time, you need to add 'a' before 'while' as illustrated below:

We talked for a while then we went home.

I was with him for a while, he didn't seem okay.

As a Verb

'While' can also be used as a verb to indicate time. However, this usage is outdated and you may not hear it.

Formality

'Whilst' is known as the formal verion of 'while.' 'Whilst' is mostly used in academic writing.

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