What's the difference between when and while?

When


Definition:

  • (adv.) At what time; -- used interrogatively.
  • (adv.) At what time; at, during, or after the time that; at or just after, the moment that; -- used relatively.
  • (adv.) While; whereas; although; -- used in the manner of a conjunction to introduce a dependent adverbial sentence or clause, having a causal, conditional, or adversative relation to the principal proposition; as, he chose to turn highwayman when he might have continued an honest man; he removed the tree when it was the best in the grounds.
  • (adv.) Which time; then; -- used elliptically as a noun.

Example Sentences:

While


Definition:

  • (n.) Space of time, or continued duration, esp. when short; a time; as, one while we thought him innocent.
  • (n.) That which requires time; labor; pains.
  • (v. t.) To cause to pass away pleasantly or without irksomeness or disgust; to spend or pass; -- usually followed by away.
  • (v. i.) To loiter.
  • (conj.) During the time that; as long as; whilst; at the same time that; as, while I write, you sleep.
  • (conj.) Hence, under which circumstances; in which case; though; whereas.
  • (prep.) Until; till.

Example Sentences: