Can awhile be used after a preposition?: Usage Guide
Although considered a solecism by many commentators, awhile, like several other adverbs of time and place, is often used as the object of a preposition.
… would be generous enough to let me explore their world for awhile.
—
David Yeadon
David Yeadon
Examples of awhile in a Sentence
I'm going to sit and rest awhile.
The rumor had been around awhile.
Recent Examples on the Web
Find a comfortable spot with a good view and sit awhile.
—Ernie Cowan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2025
However, those interested in making the hike will have to wait awhile.
—Shelby Slade, AZCentral.com, 15 July 2025
Rub off onto your clothes or towel Wash off due to sweat or being in water
Break down in sunlight
Clump after being on the skin awhile and become less effective
The sun gives off ultraviolet (UV) rays.
—Julie Scott, Verywell Health, 10 July 2025
Yamamoto’s early exit turned Monday into an unplanned ‘bullpen game’ and the Dodgers’ relievers handled it well for awhile.
—Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 8 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for awhile
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Ernie Cowan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2025
However, those interested in making the hike will have to wait awhile.
—Shelby Slade, AZCentral.com, 15 July 2025
Rub off onto your clothes or towel Wash off due to sweat or being in water
Break down in sunlight
Clump after being on the skin awhile and become less effective
The sun gives off ultraviolet (UV) rays.
—Julie Scott, Verywell Health, 10 July 2025
Yamamoto’s early exit turned Monday into an unplanned ‘bullpen game’ and the Dodgers’ relievers handled it well for awhile.
—Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 8 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for awhile
Cite this Entry
“Awhile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/awhile. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
awhile
adverb
ə-ˈhwī(ə)l 
ə-ˈwī(ə)l
: for a while : for a short time
sit and rest awhile
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