while we wait

USAGE SUMMARY

"while we wait" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a period of time that elapses before something else happens. For example, "Let's have some coffee while we wait for the train."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The conflagrations continue, while we wait.

The New York Times

So while we wait, what have we learnt?

Independent

While we wait for pictures to arrive, here's the invite.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

9.38am: More from the Meyer book while we wait.

The Guardian

1.16pm BST Quick look at the markets, while we wait.

The Guardian - Business

Jha writes: While we wait, the science goes on.

The Guardian

But while we wait, very bad things might happen.

The Guardian

What are we supposed to do while we wait?

The New York Times

Let's leave Albert where he is while we wait".

The New York Times

She begins eating pistachio nuts while we wait for lunch.

The New York Times - Magazine

Our lives are on hold while we wait your decision".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while we wait" to suggest an activity or action to fill the time during a period of anticipation. For example, "While we wait for the meeting to start, let's review the agenda."

Common error

Avoid using "while we wait" to describe a specific moment in time. "While" indicates a duration, so use it when referring to an activity that occurs during the waiting period, not as a single event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while we wait" functions as a temporal conjunction, introducing a clause that specifies an action or state occurring during a period of anticipation. Ludwig confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used. The phrase sets the stage for what happens in the interim.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "while we wait" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase, as verified by Ludwig, used to describe actions that occur during a period of anticipation. It functions as a temporal conjunction, connecting the act of waiting with a simultaneous activity. This phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, indicating its widespread use in journalistic writing. When using "while we wait", ensure that the suggested action appropriately fills the waiting time, and avoid using it to indicate a single event. Consider alternative phrases like "in the meantime" or "as we await" to adjust the tone or formality of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the meantime

Focuses on the intervening period before something happens.

in the intervening time

Highlights the period that separates two events.

as we await

A more formal way of expressing waiting.

during this interim period

Highlights the temporary nature of the current situation.

pending the outcome

Directly relates the waiting to a specific resolution.

for the time being

Suggests a temporary arrangement until further notice.

as we bide our time

Emphasizes patiently waiting for an opportune moment.

until the time comes

Focuses on the eventual arrival of a future event.

in anticipation of

Emphasizes the expectation and preparation for a future event.

as we stand by

Implies readiness and preparedness during the waiting period.

FAQs

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

Use "while we wait" to indicate something that happens during a period of anticipation. For example, "While we wait for the pizza to arrive, let's play a game."

What's a more formal alternative to "while we wait"?

Alternatives such as "as we await" or "pending the outcome" offer a more formal tone while still expressing the idea of waiting.

Is it correct to say 'while we are waiting' instead of "while we wait"?

Yes, "while we are waiting" is grammatically correct and carries a similar meaning to "while we wait". The continuous tense emphasizes the ongoing nature of the waiting action.

What can I do "in the meantime"?

The phrase "while we wait" often implies a suggestion for filling the time. For example, "While we wait, "in the meantime", let's brainstorm some ideas."