while you're at it

USAGE SUMMARY

"while you're at it" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when someone is already in the process of doing something, to suggest that they do something else, or an extra task, in the same process. For example, "While you're at it, could you grab me a soda from the fridge?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

While you're at it, please let me know its name.

The New Yorker

And add dontchya while you're at it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While you're at it, restrict incoming calls.

The New York Times

And smile more, while you're at it!

The New Yorker

And another while you're at it.

The New York Times

While you're at it, circle April 3.

The Washington Post

While you're at it, buy whole grains.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

[email protected] while you're at it.

The Guardian - Sport

And have some fun while you're at it.

Harvard University

So while you're at it, wipe down those ledge undersides.

Cornell University

While you're at it, get a pickle at Guss'.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while you're at it" to efficiently suggest related tasks, improving communication and productivity.

Common error

Avoid using "while you're at it" excessively, as it can sound demanding or presumptuous. Use it judiciously to maintain a polite and collaborative tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while you're at it" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It's used to introduce an additional, often related, suggestion or request, indicating that it should be done alongside the initial action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "while you're at it" is a versatile phrase used to add a secondary request or suggestion that logically connects to an initial action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It is found across various contexts, from news articles to how-to guides. Its usage is best suited for neutral to informal settings, and it should be used judiciously to avoid sounding demanding. Remember to choose more formal alternatives like "in addition" or "furthermore" in professional communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if you're doing that

This alternative directly references the action already in progress and suggests adding something to it.

also

This alternative is a straightforward way to include something else in the current action.

as well

This alternative is a simple and direct way to add an additional element or action.

on top of that

This alternative emphasizes the additional task as something extra or perhaps unexpected.

besides

This alternative suggests that there is already something being done or considered, and adds another item.

in addition to that

This alternative is a more formal way of adding another item to a list of tasks or actions.

additionally

This alternative is a formal way to introduce another idea or action.

at the same time

This alternative specifies that the second task should be carried out at the same moment.

furthermore

This alternative is a formal connector used to add more information that reinforces a point.

simultaneously

This alternative highlights the timing of doing two actions at the same time.

FAQs

How can I use "while you're at it" in a sentence?

The phrase "while you're at it" is used to suggest an additional action that can be conveniently performed alongside something that is already being done. For example, "Since you're going to the store, "while you're at it", could you pick up some milk?"

What's a more formal alternative to "while you're at it"?

For more formal contexts, you can use phrases like "in addition", "furthermore", or "additionally". For instance, instead of "While you're at it, please review the document", you could say "In addition, please review the document".

Is "while you're at it" appropriate for professional communication?

In some professional contexts, "while you're at it" can be acceptable, especially among colleagues with an established rapport. However, it's generally safer to use more formal alternatives like "additionally" or "furthermore" when communicating with superiors or external clients.

What are some common misuses of "while you're at it"?

A common mistake is using "while you're at it" to tack on tasks that are completely unrelated or overly burdensome to the original request. This can come across as inconsiderate or demanding. Make sure the added task is logically connected and reasonable.