while this

USAGE SUMMARY

"while this" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used in sentence constructions like "while this is happening, that is happening" or "while this may be true, that may also be true." Example: While this may seem like a simple task, it actually requires a lot of effort and planning.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All the while, this charade carries on.

The Guardian

And for a while, this was true.

The New York Times

For a while this was Labour policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

After a while, this risks becoming predictable.

The Guardian

"For a while, this was looking catastrophic," Mr. Purpera said.

The New York Times

Once in a while this arrangement gets renegotiated.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

At least he hung around for a while this time.

The Guardian - Sport

For a long while, this was a throwback game.

The New York Times - Sports

For a while, this gentle sleight of hand is fun.

The New Yorker

For a while this works.

Forbes

After a while this kind of work feels demeaning.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while this" to clearly indicate that two events or conditions are occurring at the same time or in relation to each other. This helps maintain clarity and flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "while this" when you simply mean "after this". The phrase implies simultaneity, not just a chronological order. For sequential events, use transitional phrases like "afterward" or "then".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while this" primarily functions as a subordinate conjunction introducing a clause that indicates simultaneous events or conditions. Examples from Ludwig show it connecting related actions or states.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

35%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "while this" is a grammatically correct and frequently used conjunction to denote simultaneous occurrences or conditions. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts such as news, academia, and general writing. Though versatile, it is important to ensure it correctly conveys simultaneity and isn't misused for simple sequential events. Related alternatives include "during this time" and "as this occurs". Utilizing it appropriately can enhance clarity and coherence in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as this is happening

Adds emphasis to the current ongoing action.

whilst this happens

A more formal synonym, indicating simultaneity.

during this time

Focuses on the temporal aspect of simultaneous events.

as this occurs

Highlights the ongoing nature of an event or action.

concurrently with this

Highlights the co-occurrence of events in a formal tone.

in the meantime

Emphasizes an intervening period.

at the same time

Simplifies the expression to a basic temporal relationship.

simultaneously

Replaces the entire phrase with a single adverb.

even though this is true

Introduces a concessive element, acknowledging a point but setting up a contrast.

in light of this

Shifts the focus to considering something in relation to existing information.

FAQs

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

Use "while this" to show that two actions or states occur simultaneously. For example, "While this is happening, remember to stay focused on the primary objective."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "while this"?

Similar phrases include "during this time", "as this occurs", and "in the meantime", depending on the specific context.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "while this"?

Yes, it's incorrect if you intend to convey a sequence of events rather than simultaneous occurrences. In such cases, use "after this" or "then".

Can "while this" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "while this" is suitable for formal writing, especially when emphasizing the concurrent nature of events or conditions. However, "whilst this happens" may be preferred in very formal contexts.