Whilst

Definition

"Whilst" is a conjunction mainly used in British English to mean "while," especially in the context of contrasting two situations or events happening simultaneously.

Parts of Speech

• Conjunction

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /waɪlst/
• Respelling: wylst

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /waɪlst/
• Respelling: wylst

In both American and British English, "whilst" is pronounced with a long "y" sound as in "my," followed by an "lst" sound. The pronunciation is essentially the same in both versions of English.

Etymology

"Whilst" is derived from Middle English "whilist", an alteration of "whiles", with the "-t" added for emphasis, similar to "amongst" and "against". It has been in use since the 14th century.

Derivatives

• While
• Whiles
• Whilom (archaic)
• Whence
• Whereby

Synonyms

• While
• As
• At the same time as

Antonyms

• None
• None
• None

Usage

"Whilst" is predominantly used in British English, and less commonly in American English. It serves as an alternative to "while" in many contexts, especially when contrasting two situations. Some consider "whilst" to be more formal than "while", although both are grammatically correct.

Related Terms

• Meanwhile
• Concurrently
• Simultaneously
• In the meantime
• Concurrent

Detailed Definition

Conjunction

• During the same time that; at the same time as.‍
• Example: She read the book whilst he watched the television.

• Although, even though, or whereas.‍
• Example: The phone is slim, whilst still having a large screen.

• In contrast or comparison with the fact that.‍
• Example: He enjoys hiking, whilst his brother prefers staying indoors.