while on the field

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "while on the field" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or events occurring during the time someone is physically present in a specific area, typically related to sports or outdoor activities. Example: "The coach observed the players closely while on the field to assess their performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Pietersen has also been filling commentary roles while in Australia on both Channel Nine and Network Ten cricket broadcasts, including while on the field for the Stars.

The Guardian - Sport

Sabathia was surprised when the Indians traded Martinez last week, and the two players talked for a while on the field Thursday.

The New York Times - Sports

About the only time one sees a baseball player sitting on a stool while on the field is during a cow-milking contest at a minor league game.

The New York Times

However, while on the field we observed that it will be logistically challenging to organise one FGD for our women category of participants, who live in different counties or communes.

BMC International Health and Human Rights

In both, players are often seen drinking beer and smoking cigarettes while on the field.

The Economist

While on the field of play, each time Enrique blinked – occupying around 300 milliseconds of his time – he earned £88.40.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The ref seems content to watch the medical staff take a while with her on the field.

The Guardian - Sport

feet, this advanced shoe brings utmost results while playing on the field.

Columbia University

BATON ROUGE, La .- While success on the field usually materializes because of work ethic and talent, a little boost from the gene pool never hurts.

The New York Times

Recent installments have included a flatulent child and a Philadelphia Phillies fan who was Tasered by security guards while running on the field during a game.

The New York Times

Fidrych sustained two serious injuries as soon as the 1977 season began, tearing the cartilage in a knee while cavorting on the field in spring training, then suffering a rotator cuff injury during an early-season game.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while on the field" to specifically indicate actions or observations occurring during a sporting event or similar activity. It clearly establishes the context for the described events.

Common error

Avoid using "while on the field" when a more specific location or situation is relevant. For instance, if you're referring to a specific area, using "near the goalpost" is more accurate than the general "while on the field".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while on the field" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying the time frame during which an action occurs. As Ludwig AI points out, it indicates that something happens concurrently with someone's presence and activity within a designated area, commonly a sports field.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "while on the field" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed adverbial phrase that establishes a temporal and spatial context, as Ludwig AI confirms. Its primary function is to specify that an action or observation is happening concurrently with someone's presence and activity on a designated field. While the phrase is most prevalent in sports-related contexts (News & Media), it can be adapted to other scenarios. Alternatives such as "during the game" or "on the pitch" may provide more specific nuances depending on the intended message. Remember that while "while on the field" is widely accepted, accuracy demands that you consider more specific phrases or wording when possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the pitch

Synonymous, commonly used in British English, specifying the playing area.

in the game

Simple and direct, referring to involvement in a game or activity.

during gameplay

Replaces "while on the field" with a term more specific to games, whether physical or digital.

during the match

Focuses on the time frame of a competitive event.

on the playing surface

Emphasizes the physical location of the action, suitable for sports contexts.

on the court

Specifies the playing area of sports like basketball or tennis.

whilst actively playing

A more formal alternative that highlights the active participation in a game or activity.

whilst engaged in play

A formal and emphatic version of the original phrase.

in the arena

Broader term that can apply to various competitive settings.

during field operations

Replaces the sporting context with a more general term, like military actions.

FAQs

What does "while on the field" mean?

The phrase "while on the field" typically refers to the time period when someone is actively participating in a sports game or is present in an outdoor environment designated for a specific activity. It indicates that actions or events are occurring during this time.

What can I say instead of "while on the field"?

You can use alternatives like "during the game", "in the arena", or "on the pitch" depending on the specific context and sport being referenced.

Is it correct to say "whilst on the field"?

Yes, "whilst on the field" is grammatically correct, using "whilst" as a more formal or archaic alternative to "while". Both phrases are acceptable and convey the same meaning, although "while" is more commonly used in modern English.

How can "while on the field" be used in a sentence?

You can use "while on the field" to describe actions or conditions during gameplay, such as, "The coach observed the players closely "while on the field" to assess their performance".