What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
whilst
Example
Whilst I was cooking dinner, my husband set the table. [whilst: conjunction]
Example
She read a book whilst waiting for her flight. [whilst: preposition]
while
Example
I'll be back in a while. [while: noun]
Example
He listened to music while he worked. [while: conjunction]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
While is more commonly used than whilst in everyday language, especially in American English. Whilst is more commonly used in formal writing or speech.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between whilst and while?
Whilst is considered more formal than while. Therefore, it is more appropriate to use whilst in formal writing or speech, while while can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
