while that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "while that" can be correct and usable in written English, depending on the context. You can use it when you want to indicate a simultaneous action or condition related to a specific subject or situation. Example: "While that may be true, we still need to consider other factors." Alternative expressions include "while this," "although that," and "whereas that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For a while, that may be enough.

The Economist

"After a while, that catches up".

The New York Times

"After a while, that wears on you.

The New York Times - Sports

For a while, that strategy paid off.

The New York Times

For a while that served Amstrad very well.

Independent

For a while, that seemed to be true.

The New Yorker

For a while, that creates new alliances and tensions.

The New York Times

And for a little while, that seemed enough.

The New York Times - Sports

But after a while that catches up with you".

The New York Times

After a while that became an automatic reaction".

The Guardian - Sport

For quite a long while that became a familiar response.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while that" to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement that occurs simultaneously with the main clause. Ensure the connection between the two clauses is clear and logical.

Common error

Avoid using "while that" simply as a substitute for "although" when there is no element of simultaneous action or duration. "Although" is more appropriate for simple concessions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while that" functions as a subordinating conjunction, introducing a clause that presents a contrast, qualification, or simultaneous condition to the main clause. Ludwig's examples show it often sets up a counterpoint or acknowledges a limitation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "while that" serves as a useful conjunction to introduce contrasting or qualifying clauses. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media. It's important to note that this phrase implies an element of simultaneity or duration. When aiming to indicate simple contrast, alternatives such as although or "even though" may be more suitable. It's a common phrase but context is important. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context. The advice is to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

whilst that

A more formal synonym for "while that", offering a slightly elevated tone.

although that

Emphasizes the contrast or concession implied, rather than the simultaneous timing.

even though that

Strengthens the sense of contrast or unexpectedness in the statement.

considering that

Shifts focus to the reason or basis for the subsequent statement.

given that

Similar to "considering that", but may suggest a more established or known fact.

inasmuch as that

A highly formal and somewhat archaic equivalent, suitable for very specific contexts.

seeing as that

An informal alternative, suggesting a more conversational tone.

notwithstanding that

A formal way to express that something is true despite the existence of something else.

during that time

Focuses specifically on the temporal aspect, indicating something happening concurrently.

in the meantime

Implies a temporary situation or action occurring until something else happens.

FAQs

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

"While that" introduces a clause that contrasts with or qualifies the main clause, often implying simultaneity. Example: "While that may be true, we must consider other options."

What are some alternatives to "while that"?

Consider using alternatives such as "although that", "even though that", or "whilst that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "while that" interchangeable with "although"?

Not always. "While that" often implies simultaneity or duration, whereas "although" simply indicates a contrast or concession. Use "although" when the element of time is not relevant.

What's the difference between "while that" and "in the meantime"?

"While that" introduces a contrasting or qualifying clause, whereas "in the meantime" indicates an action or state that occurs during a specific period. "While that" focuses on the relationship between two ideas, whereas "in the meantime" emphasizes a temporary situation.