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while1 S1 W1
1 during the time that something is happening : 
They arrived while we were having dinner.While she was asleep, thieves broke in and stole her handbag. She met Andy while working on a production of Carmen. ➔ see usage note during
They arrived while we were having dinner.While she was asleep, thieves broke in and stole her handbag.She met Andy while working on a production of Carmen.2 all the time that something is happening : Would you look after the children while I do the shopping?
Would you look after the children while I do the shopping?3 used to emphasize the difference between two situations, activities etc : Schools in the north tend to be better equipped, while those in the south are relatively poor.
Schools in the north tend to be better equipped, while those in the south are relatively poor.4 in spite of the fact that [= although]: While never a big eater, he did snack a lot. While there was no conclusive evidence, most people thought he was guilty.
While never a big eater, he did snack a lot.While there was no conclusive evidence, most people thought he was guilty.5 used to suggest that someone should do something at the same time that they do something else : Print out what you've written, and while you're at it make a copy for me.
while I'm/you're etc at/about it
spokenPrint out what you've written, and while you're at it make a copy for me.
