then while

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then while" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to indicate that something begins to happen at the same time as something else. For example: I lit the candles, then while I arranged the flowers for the centerpiece, the room filled with a sweet aroma.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Then, while General N.F.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Then, while it's drying, ring Charles Saatchi.

Independent

And then, while you're stopped, you get hit.

The New Yorker

Then, while handcuffing Bourdin, the police removed his baseball cap.

The New Yorker

Then, while running, she felt pain in her left calf.

The New York Times

Then while continuing to blend, add the olive oil gradually.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then, while adding that break, I somehow deleted an entire scene and couldn't retrieve it.

The New York Times - Tech

"And then, while I'd probably never do this last one, showing up at their house".

The New York Times - Tech

Then, while they hit the beaches, state senators demanded further cuts.

The Economist

It was only then, while recalling that final moment, that she began to weep.

The New York Times

Then, while Pakistan's supporters continued to party, the captain announced his retirement from Twenty20 cricket.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "then while", ensure that the sequence of events is clear. "Then" establishes the initial action, and "while" introduces the simultaneous or subsequent action that occurs alongside it.

Common error

Avoid using "then while" when the actions are not truly simultaneous or immediately sequential. Ensure that the events described genuinely overlap in time or follow directly after each other; otherwise, choose a more precise conjunction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then while" functions as a temporal connector, linking two clauses where the second action happens during or immediately after the first. Ludwig provides several examples showing its use in describing sequential and concurrent events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

18%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then while" is a grammatically correct phrase used to connect sequential and simultaneous events. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for use in written English. It is frequently found in news and media sources, as well as scientific writing, with a neutral register that suits general and informative contexts. When using "then while", be sure to establish a clear sequence and ensure that the linked actions overlap in time. Consider alternative phrases such as "subsequently as" or "after that meanwhile" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subsequently as

Replaces "then" with "subsequently" to emphasize the sequence, while "as" substitutes "while" for a more direct temporal connection.

afterward as

"Afterward" marks sequence, while "as" provides a temporal connection.

following that as

"Following that" indicates sequence; "as" shows the concurrent nature of the events.

after which simultaneously

"After which" specifies order, and "simultaneously" highlights the overlapping timing.

after that meanwhile

"After that" provides sequential order, "meanwhile" makes explicit the concept of overlapping action.

thereafter during

"Thereafter" denotes time order, and "during" specifies when the second action occurs.

later at the same time

"Later" signifies that something happens after a point, "at the same time" ensures simultaneity is highlighted.

next concurrent with

"Next" clearly indicates what comes after, and "concurrent with" emphasizes the coinciding actions.

following this concurrently

"Following this" provides an indication of immediate succession, whereas "concurrently" means coinciding in time.

in the aftermath while

"In the aftermath" implies a period following an event, "while" denoting simultaneous occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "then while" in a sentence?

Use "then while" to connect two events, where "then" indicates a sequence, and "while" indicates simultaneity. For example, "I finished my homework, "then while" watching TV, I ate a snack."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "then while"?

Alternatives include "subsequently as", "after which simultaneously", or "following that as" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "then while" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "then while" is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI also confirms that it is fine to use "then while" in your writing. However, consider whether a more precise conjunction would improve clarity, especially in formal contexts.

What is the difference between "then while" and "meanwhile"?

"Then while" explicitly connects a sequence with a simultaneous action, whereas "meanwhile" simply indicates something happening at the same time, without necessarily implying a direct sequence. You could replace "then while" with "after that meanwhile" to combine the elements of sequence and simultaneity.