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while

while [ wīl, hwīl ]


conj 
Definition:
 
1. at or during same time: at or during the same time that
We can talk while I fix supper.

2. even though: in spite of the fact that
While I admire your tenacity, I cannot support your aims.

3. but in contrast: but on the contrary
An older car would be cheaper to buy while a newer one might be more reliable.



noun 
Definition:
 
period of time: a period of time or an interval
It's been a while since I saw her.

[ Old English hwīl "period of time" < Indo-European, "rest, period of rest"]

once in a while very occasionally

worth somebody's while 

1. 
deserving somebody's time, money, or support
 

2. 
rewarding in terms of money or advantage



Spelling Note
while or wile?

Do not confuse the spelling of while and wile, which sound similar. While indicates a time or an additional consideration: took it while I was not looking, While I applaud the motive, the result might be disastrous.Wile, or more often the plural wiles, refers to cunning behavior.

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