while doing this

USAGE SUMMARY

"while doing this" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is a subordinating conjunction that is commonly used to introduce a subordinate clause, which provides additional information to a sentence. For example: "I had to stop and think carefully while doing this complex math problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(Highly recommend wearing gloves while doing this).

Huffington Post

Have fun while doing this.

WikiHow

Be careful while doing this.

WikiHow

While doing this, look up.

WikiHow

Bend over while doing this.

WikiHow

Don't get mad while doing this.

WikiHow

Open your eyes slightly while doing this.

WikiHow

Extend the string while doing this.

WikiHow

Look in a mirror while doing this.

WikiHow

Keep Minecraft closed while doing this.

WikiHow

Leave TASK MANAGER OPEN while doing this.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "while doing this", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what "this" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader. Be specific in your phrasing.

Common error

Avoid placing "while doing this" in a way that creates a dangling modifier. Make sure the subject of the main clause is also the one performing the action described in the "while doing this" phrase. For example, instead of writing 'While doing this, the cake should be watched carefully', write 'While watching the cake carefully, ensure it doesn't burn'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while doing this" functions as a subordinating conjunction, introducing an adverbial clause of time. It connects an action in progress with another action or state. Ludwig examples show it linking precautions, instructions, or simultaneous actions. The Ludwig AI confirms its validity as a subordinating conjunction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

81%

News & Media

17%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "while doing this" is a versatile and commonly used conjunction phrase that introduces an adverbial clause of time. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and primarily used to link simultaneous actions or to provide context, instructions, or warnings related to an ongoing activity. While "while doing this" is frequently found in informal contexts, such as WikiHow, and news media, it can be replaced with more formal alternatives like "simultaneously" or "whilst doing this" in academic or professional settings. When using "while doing this", clarity is key; ensure that the reference of "this" is clear to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

whilst doing this

A slightly more formal synonym for "while doing this".

as you do this

Replaces "while" with "as", emphasizing the concurrent nature of the action.

at the same time

A common phrase indicating concurrence.

during this process

Focuses on the process aspect, suitable when describing a series of steps.

as this is happening

Highlights the ongoing nature of the action.

in the midst of this

Implies being surrounded by or deeply involved in the action.

in doing so

More concise and formal, referring back to the act of doing something.

simultaneously

A single-word adverb emphasizing that two things occur at the same time.

throughout this action

Emphasizes the duration of the action.

concurrently

A formal adverb indicating that two things happen at the same time.

FAQs

How can I use "while doing this" in a sentence?

Use "while doing this" to connect an action that occurs simultaneously with another. For example, "Be careful "while doing this", as the surface may be slippery."

What are some alternatives to "while doing this"?

You can use alternatives like "as you do this", "at the same time", or "simultaneously" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "whilst doing this" instead of "while doing this"?

Yes, "whilst doing this" is generally considered a more formal alternative to ""while doing this"", though both are grammatically correct.

How can I avoid ambiguity when using "while doing this"?

Ensure that the reference of "this" is clear and unambiguous. The action or process "this" refers to should be immediately apparent from the context of the sentence. For example, instead of "While doing this, be careful", write "While cutting the vegetables, be careful".