while we are at it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "while we are at it" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
It is used to introduce an additional (often related) item into a conversation. For example, "I need to buy some apples at the store. While we are at it, let's pick up some oranges too."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

I know my prediction isn't flawless - but we ARE changing our work life, so while we are at it, why don't we try and do some good with it.

Huffington Post

I could show you the billboard while we are at it.

The Guardian - Opinion

And while we are at it, let's schedule another Boston Marathon as soon as possible.

The New York Times

And while we are at it, it may be time to redefine Official Development Assistance.

The Guardian

And while we are at it, let's give them back their personalities.

The Guardian - Sport

While we are at it, why not eliminate education and licensing requirements for engineers, accountants, electricians and plumbers?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

WHILE we're at it, aren't these ticker tape parades too narrowly focused?

The New York Times

Killing civilians while we're at it.

The New Yorker

Why not women while we're at it?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And a hurdy-gurdy while we're at it.

The Guardian

(And while we're at it, pay the players).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while we are at it" to smoothly introduce a related task or idea that can be conveniently addressed at the same time, improving efficiency and flow in communication.

Common error

Avoid using "while we are at it" excessively in a single piece of writing, as it can make your text sound disorganized or as if you're tacking on unrelated ideas. Ensure each use is genuinely connected to the main topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while we are at it" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two related actions or ideas, suggesting that the second action should be performed since the first is already being undertaken. As Ludwig AI confirms, it introduces an additional item into a conversation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "while we are at it" is a common and grammatically sound conjunctive phrase used to introduce a related action or idea that can be conveniently addressed simultaneously. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is acceptable for written English and used to introduce an additional item into a conversation. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for professional or informal communication. When using "while we are at it", ensure the secondary action is genuinely related to the primary one and avoid overuse to maintain clarity and organization in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as long as we're doing this

Emphasizes the current activity as a prerequisite for the additional one.

since we're on the subject

Highlights the conversational context as the reason for introducing the new idea.

in addition

A more formal and direct way of adding information.

furthermore

Emphasizes the addition of a point that supports a previous one.

moreover

Similar to "furthermore", indicating an additional point.

to that end

Introduces an action that contributes to a previously mentioned goal.

along those lines

Suggests a connection to the previous topic, less direct than "while we are at it".

on a related note

Introduces a topic that's connected but not necessarily a direct continuation.

in that vein

Connects the new idea to the previous one in a figurative or thematic sense.

by the way

A more casual way to introduce a related but slightly off-topic idea.

FAQs

How can I use "while we are at it" in a sentence?

Use "while we are at it" to introduce an additional, related action or idea that can be conveniently addressed at the same time. For example, "We're going to the grocery store; "while we are at it", let's pick up some milk".

What phrases are similar to "while we are at it"?

Similar phrases include "in addition", "furthermore", or "on a related note". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "while we're at it" the same as "while we are at it"?

Yes, "while we're at it" is a contraction of "while we are at it", and they are interchangeable in most contexts. The contracted form is slightly more informal.

When should I avoid using "while we are at it"?

Avoid using "while we are at it" when the additional action or idea is completely unrelated to the main topic, or in very formal writing where a more direct and structured approach is preferred. Consider alternatives like "in addition" or "furthermore" in formal contexts.