I'd like to know the meaning of 'While' in this sentence

Question

Hi! I received help with learning english expression here a few days ago. Thanks again.

Today, I read the sentence "While voter turnout was higher than expected, some election workers failed to show." on TIME ASIA
I don't know how to understand this sentence, because of While. Considering the context, I think it must not indicate a period but rather a contrast meaning... but it's difficult to understand the correct meaning of While. Please let me know. :-)

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

while = although

CJ

Avangi · Answer

I don't think this is an example of good English usage, Waterhouse. "While" is often used in the same way as "although," to indicate a contrast, as you say; and the temptation exists to take it as that usage here. But I don't see the contrast. The two things have nothing to do with each other, unless there's something I'm missing in prior context. I think an inexperienced reporter is trying to connect the facts he has in a smooth way. Without more context, I'd say it's just two things that happened during the same period of time - like my mother's nonsense song, While the organ pealed potatoes, lard was rendered by the choir./ While the sexton tolled the church bells, someone set the church on fire.

- A.

Edit. Although there were many leaves on the trees, the forest was deserted. There's a contrast here between presence and absence, but I think it's a misuse of "although." In my opinion, "although" in this usage implies some kind of connection.
I have no doubt the author who was quoted in the OP would have said he was using "while" in the sense of "although."

Cool Breeze · Answer

I agree with Jim (and so does the Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary).

7. even though; although: While she appreciated the honor, she could not accept the position.

CB

Anonymous · Answer

see and go while walking by the road

I'd like to know the meaning of 'While' in this sentence

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions