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While
“While” is a word in the English language that functions both as a noun and as a subordinating conjunction. Its meaning varies largely based on its intended function, position in the phrase and even the writer or speaker’s regional dialect. As a conjunction, it is synonymous with the word “whilst”, a form often considered archaic in American English, as well as in some style guides on both sides of the Atlantic.
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While (noun)
An uncertain duration of time, a period of time.
“He lectured for quite a long while.”
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While (conjunction)
During the same time that.
“He was sleeping while I was singing.”
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While (conjunction)
Although.
“This case, while interesting, is a bit frustrating.”
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While (conjunction)
Until.
“I’ll wait while you’ve finished painting.”
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While (conjunction)
As long as.
“While you’re at school you may live at home.”
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While (preposition)
Until.
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While (verb)
To pass (time) idly.
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While (verb)
To loiter.
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During (preposition)
For all of a given time interval.
“I lived with my parents during the 1970s.”
“The shop was one of the few able to stay open during the war.”
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During (preposition)
At any time or period within a given time interval.
“I lived with my parents at several points during the 1980s.”
“Many of the best examples were produced during the Restoration.”