I have a problem with for awhile...

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DBOO

New Member
Feb 12, 2014
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I just finished, reading with great pleasure, Doctor Sleep. I am asking a grammar question. I always understood that "for awhile" was incorrect usage and "for a while" was correct. If for awhile has become correct, please let me know so I can get off my high horse about its use! Thank you....DBOO
 

Sundrop

Sunny the Great & Wonderful
Jun 12, 2008
28,520
156,619
This is what I found. Looks like either is correct, and having slightly differing meanings

The adverb awhile (one word) means for a short time: "Stay awhile."
The noun phrase a while (two words) refers to a period of time: "I sat for a while and waited.".
 

skimom2

Just moseyin' through...
Oct 9, 2013
15,683
92,168
USA
Language often changes over time, and this is becoming acceptable. The one that's currently sticking in my craw is 'alright'. I had 'all right' drummed into my head so often that the other makes me cringe. Still, you see it everywhere, so it's obviously okay in common usage.
 

Neesy

#1 fan (Annie Wilkes cousin) 1st cousin Mom's side
May 24, 2012
61,289
239,271
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
I just finished, reading with great pleasure, Doctor Sleep. I am asking a grammar question. I always understood that "for awhile" was incorrect usage and "for a while" was correct. If for awhile has become correct, please let me know so I can get off my high horse about its use! Thank you....DBOO
@GNTLGNT can help you get down off that high horse if you like (he is pretty tall)

Welcome to the SKMB @DBOO
 
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HollyGolightly

Well-Known Member
Sep 6, 2013
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Heart of the South
@Neesy
Hello, darlin'!
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Drive by posts are so fun to sully. I'm trying to say "awhile" or "a while" often these days and discern when to use which. Nonsensical, isn't it?
 
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