Definitions

awhile

[uh-hwahyl, uh-wahyl] / əˈʰwaɪl, əˈwaɪl /

ADVERB

for a short period

Synonyms

WEAK

briefly for a bit for a little while for a moment for a spell for a while for the moment momentarily not for long temporarily transiently

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

awhile

Consumers will get some relief when oil and fuel supplies return to normal, but it could be awhile.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 14, 2026

And though it took awhile, the Tate brothers are finally behind bars.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 8, 2026

Even if the war ends soon, it could take awhile to restore some energy supply.

From Barron's ● Mar. 23, 2026

While it doesn’t necessarily mean the stock is in trouble, since this technical condition can last for awhile and be worked off without a selloff, it does suggest caution.

From MarketWatch ● Jan. 21, 2026

It hardly ever speaks, and even if it does you often have to wait awhile.

From "Ida B" by Katherine Hannigan

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