while we await

USAGE SUMMARY

"while we await" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used when expecting something to happen in the future, usually after the phrase "in the meantime". For example: "We are still waiting for the results of the election, so in the meantime, while we await, let's stay calm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

While we await construction of the new facility, a very bad situation morphs into the tolerable.

The New York Times

All members are advised not to stand out in the open while we await.

The New Yorker

While we await the answer, the Racinian alexandrine seems a helluva way to get in shape.

The New York Times - Arts

But while we await England-Argentina, great games could break out anywhere.

The New York Times - Sports

While we await a definition from the DfE, I looked up "coasting".

The Guardian

While we await the latest update from John Boehner and Harry Reid, other things have been happening in the world.

The New Yorker

At least Looking Forward will keep us all occupied while we await the reconstituted City Opera next fall.

The New York Times - Arts

We hunker down for the day and occupy ourselves playing games while we await a weather window.

The Guardian

"We will continue to support Allen while we await the outcome of these proceedings," the statement said.

The New York Times - Sports

While we await the results, our Yeti hopes are stomped underfoot by evolutionary biologist Dr Charlotte Lindqvist.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"He will return to his home on Cape Cod while we await further test results and determine treatment plans".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while we await" to create a sense of anticipation or patience in formal writing. It's particularly useful when transitioning between discussing a current situation and an expected future development.

Common error

Avoid using "while we await" in contexts where active engagement or immediate action is required. It implies a passive stance of waiting, which might not always be appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while we await" functions as a subordinating conjunction, introducing a clause that specifies a time during which something else is happening or being done. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "while we await" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to express anticipation of a future event, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a subordinating conjunction, primarily used in neutral to formal contexts such as news, science, and business. Its purpose is to set a temporal context, indicating actions or considerations taking place in the interim period. Ludwig's examples demonstrate usage across diverse scenarios. When using this phrase, remember that it implies a passive stance of waiting and might not be suitable for contexts requiring immediate action. Consider alternatives like "as we wait for" or "pending" for different nuances. Overall, "while we await" is a valuable phrase for conveying expectation and patience in professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

while anticipating

A more concise version, using the participle form of 'anticipate'.

as we are waiting for

This alternative uses a continuous tense, emphasizing the ongoing nature of waiting.

during the period awaiting

Formal and emphasizes the duration of the waiting period.

pending our expectation of

This is a more formal alternative, highlighting the expectation aspect.

in anticipation of

This phrase focuses on the feeling of looking forward to something.

as we stand by for

This suggests a readiness or preparedness while waiting.

as we look forward to

Emphasizes the positive aspect of expecting something desirable.

until we receive

Focuses on the reception of something expected.

before the expected arrival of

Focuses on the arrival of something that is expected.

in the interim before

Highlights the time period before the expected event.

FAQs

How can I use "while we await" in a sentence?

You can use "while we await" to introduce a period of waiting before an expected event or outcome. For example, "The negotiations are ongoing; "while we await" the final decision, we continue our preparations".

What are some alternatives to "while we await"?

Some alternatives include "as we wait for", "pending", "in anticipation of", or "as we look forward to". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "while we await" formal or informal?

"While we await" is generally considered a more formal expression, suitable for professional or academic writing. In casual conversation, simpler phrases like "as we wait" might be preferred.

What is the difference between "while we await" and "while we're waiting for"?

"While we await" is more concise and formal. "While we're waiting for" is more conversational and emphasizes the continuous action of waiting. The phrase while we are waiting for