When vs. While

'When' and 'while' are used to indicate two actions which is why learners may confuse them. In this lesson, we will learn when to use each of them.

What Is Their Main Difference?

The main difference between "when" and "while" is that "when" expresses single actions but "while" expresses continuous actions.

Parts of Speech

When

1. The word "when" introduces a dependent (subordinate) clause that provides additional context to the main clause; therefore acting as a subordinating conjunction. It is used to introduce a time-specific action or a sequence of events. It is s used for single, completed actions.

I helped my mother around the house when I was home.

She was mad at me when I broke her favorite photo frame.

2. "When" can also function as an adverb, referring to a specific time.

I remember Christmases when it used to snow.

I’ll never forget the time when we first met.

While

1. As a subordinating conjunction, "while" introduces a dependent clause that describes an action happening at the same time or contrasts with the main clause.

I was studying for the exam while my friend was taking a nap.

While I was cooking dinner, the kids were playing outside.

2. As an adverb, "while" refers to a period of time or an interval, describing a duration or length, often meaning "for a period of time."

We explored the area during the time while the sun was setting.

The phase while the project was under review lasted two weeks.

3. "While" can also be used as a noun, often accompanied by "in a...," "once in a...," "for a...," and "worth your...." In this usage, "while" is used to indicate a specific period of time, such as "You can wait here for a while."

You can wait here for a while.

I was hoping I could see you again in a while.

Indicating Time

"When" and "while" are both used to show two actions that are happening at the same time. However, there is a small distinction that requires your attention.
"When" is used to express two single actions that happen simultaneously.
"While" is used to express two continuous actions that happen simultaneously.
If you pay close attention, you can see that "when" and "while" both express a condition and its results.

She was mad at me when I broke her favorite photo frame.

I was putting away the dishes while my friend was doing the laundry.

What would happen if we have two actions but one is single action and the other is continuous. In this case, we can use both. Watch:

He knocked on the door when I was sleeping.

He knocked on the door while I was sleeping.

Now if the subordinating conjunction is placed before the single action, we must use "when."

I was sleeping when he knocked on the door.

I was sleeping ~~while~~ he knocked on the door.

Comments

(0)

Share on :