awhile
gb/əwˈaɪl/ us/əwˈaɪl/
A2
English
~ 1900
Senses
0 senses
adverb
A2
relation
1
for a short period
For a short time.
Usage pattern:
to stay/wait/rest [awhile]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'awhile' (adverb) with 'a while' (noun phrase). 'Awhile' is used without a preposition, while 'a while' follows 'for' or 'in'. Example: 'Stay awhile' vs. 'Stay for a while'.
Synonyms
briefly (Implies something happens quickly or is described in few words, not always about duration of staying.)
|
temporarily (Focuses on being not permanent, can be longer than 'awhile'.)
Antonyms
permanently (Indicates something lasting forever, opposite of a short time.)
|
forever (Means for all time, the direct opposite in duration.)
Collocations
stay awhile
|wait awhile
|rest awhile
|talk awhile
Themes
time
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- We sat on the porch awhile, enjoying the sunset.
- You should rest awhile before continuing your journey.
- He stayed awhile to help clean up after the party.
- Let’s talk awhile before you go.
- She lingered awhile, hoping to see him again.
Learner examples
- Please wait awhile for the bus.
- He stayed awhile at my house.
- I will rest awhile after lunch.
- We talked awhile in the park.
- Stay awhile and have some tea.
Grammar
Dictionary form
awhile
IPA
GB/əwˈaɪl/
US/əwˈaɪl/
Syllables & stress
awhile (1 syllable)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: awhile
- Plural: awhiles
Word family
Forms
awhiles
noun
Core family
while
noun A2
Related words
meanwhile
adverb B1
worthwhile
adjective B1
Expressions
rest awhile
1/ɹˈɛst əwˈaɪl/
fixed phrase
relax briefly
To stop working and relax for a short time.
Examples
- Come inside and rest awhile after your walk.
- She rested awhile before starting the next task.
stay awhile
1/stˈeɪ əwˈaɪl/
fixed phrase
remain briefly
To remain in a place for a short time.
Examples
- Please stay awhile and enjoy the music.
- He decided to stay awhile after dinner to chat.
wait awhile
1/wˈeɪt əwˈaɪl/
fixed phrase
pause briefly
To stop and not do anything for a short time.
Examples
- You should wait awhile before making a decision.
- Let’s wait awhile until the rain stops.