What’s the difference between a while and awhile?

Well, this is one of those because English is confusing and doesn’t always have a great reason examples. Why would The Grammar Chicken say this? Because “a while” (adv.) means “a period or interval of time,” and “awhile” (n.) means “for a short time or period.”

So… Got it? Nope? You’re not alone. They seem somewhat interchangeable, and as a copy editor, I’ve come across plenty of professional writers who don’t know the difference. (Grammar nerds, The Grammar Chicken loves you all, but you’re not fooling anyone when you pretend to be offended when people don’t know the difference between “a while” and “awhile.” Stick with they’re, their and there.)

Here’s a simple trick: Do you need an itty bitty word like “for” or “in” in front? If so, use “a while,” two words. If not, use “awhile,” one word.

The example in the AP Style Guide is as follows:

He plans to stay awhile (adv.).

He plans to stay for a while. (n.)