while we know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "while we know" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrast or a condition that exists alongside a known fact or understanding. Example: "While we know the risks involved, we must proceed with caution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

While we know these are two separate universes".

The New Yorker

The tragedy is that while we know that, Peter doesn't.

The Guardian - Books

While we know a lot about these factors, separately, their integration is still relatively poor.

Developments in Environmental Modelling

A guy filming bathroom tiles while we know the good stuff is squirting out-of-shot?

The Guardian - Tech

But while we know what he loathes, it can be hard to tell what he loves.

The Guardian - Books

But while we know about Phillips, we don't know about Louisville's basketball coach, Rick Pitino.

The New York Times

And while we know that both pitchers and hitters bulked up in that era, the arms rule now.

The New York Times - Sports

While we know that social anxiety disorder (SAD) is today's most common anxiety disorder knowledge on its prospective long-term course is sparse.

Journal of Anxiety Disorders

"They view mobile as an extension of the online site, while we know our members use mobile much differently".

The New York Times

While we know CBT can be the right treatment for many people, it isn't suitable for everyone".

The Guardian

While we know his passing will bring his body peace, many will feel the loss of this man.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "while we know", ensure the clauses it connects have a clear and logical relationship. The contrasting element should provide meaningful context or limitation to the initial statement.

Common error

Avoid using "while we know" when simply adding information without a contrasting element. It's not suitable for introductory statements where no prior knowledge is assumed.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "while we know" is to serve as a conjunction phrase, introducing a subordinate clause that expresses a concession or contrast. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in academic, news, and general writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

32%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "while we know" is a versatile conjunction phrase used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying point, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, especially news and media, science, and academia, make it a valuable tool for balanced and nuanced writing. Understanding its function, purpose, and common errors can further enhance its effective application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

although we know

Replaces "while" with "although", maintaining the concessive meaning but potentially altering the emphasis slightly.

even though we know

Substitutes "while" with "even though", strengthening the contrast between the clauses.

despite knowing

Uses a prepositional phrase instead of a conjunction, condensing the expression.

knowing that

Focuses on the state of knowing as the starting point, rather than introducing a contrast.

given that we know

Emphasizes the known information as a premise or condition.

in spite of the fact that we know

A more formal and emphatic way of expressing "despite knowing".

notwithstanding our knowledge

A highly formal alternative, suitable for academic or legal contexts.

though we are aware

Replaces "know" with "are aware", softening the statement slightly.

whilst acknowledging

A more formal synonym for "while" and "know" replaced with "acknowledging" emphasizing recognition.

with the understanding that we know

Introduces an element of shared understanding or agreement.

FAQs

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

Use "while we know" to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement after presenting a known fact. For instance, "while we know the risks, we must proceed carefully" demonstrates this contrast.

What can I say instead of "while we know"?

Alternatives include "although we know", "even though we know", or "despite knowing", which offer similar ways to introduce a contrasting element.

Is it better to use "while we know" or "although we know"?

Both are correct, but "although we know" might be slightly more formal. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "While" suggests a simultaneous awareness, while "although" emphasizes the contrast more directly.

Can "while we know" be used at the end of a sentence?

No, "while we know" typically introduces a clause that provides context or contrast. It's not grammatically correct to place it at the end of a sentence. You can restructure the sentence to begin with "although" or use another phrasing that fits the context.