What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
when
Example
When will you arrive at the party? [when: interrogative adverb]
Example
I always feel sleepy when it's raining outside. [when: subordinating conjunction]
Example
He left the office when the meeting ended. [when: subordinating conjunction]
while
Example
I like to listen to music while I work. [while: subordinating conjunction]
Example
While I was cooking dinner, my roommate was watching TV. [while: subordinating conjunction]
Example
While I love pizza, I can't eat it every day. [while: conjunction]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
When is more commonly used than while in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between when and while?
Both when and while are considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
