What is when? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "when" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different functions, so we'll cover them all.

1. Introducing Time Clauses (Most Common Use)

This is the most frequent way "when" is used. It introduces a clause that describes a specific time or event related to the main clause. Think of it as "at the time that..." or "as soon as...".

• Structure: When + Clause (The clause can be simple, compound, or complex)

• Examples:

  • Simple: “When I eat, I always wash the dishes.” (I wash the dishes at the time I eat.)
  • Compound: “When it rains, I stay inside.” (If it rains, then I stay inside.)
  • Complex: “When I was a child, I loved to play outside.” (My childhood is at the time that I was a child.)

2. Asking About Time (Questions)

"When" is a key word in asking about a specific time.

• Examples:
  • "When are you leaving?"
  • "When did you arrive?"
  • "When is your birthday?"
  • “When will the movie start?”

3. Expressing a Condition (Often with “if”)

"When" can be used to create a conditional statement, similar to “if.” It typically describes a specific circumstance.

• Structure: When + Subject + Verb + … (often followed by “if”)

• Examples:

  • "When you arrive, please knock." (If you arrive, then please knock.) – Notice the implied "if."
  • “When the phone rings, I will answer it.” (If the phone rings, I will answer it.)

4. Referring to Periods of Time (Less Common)

Sometimes, "when" refers to a general period of time. This usage is less common and more formal.

• Examples:
  • "When I was younger, I wanted to be a doctor." (Referring to a general past period)
  • "When this building was built, it was considered revolutionary." (Referring to the time the building was constructed)

Key Points & Differences

• "When" vs. "While": "While" also introduces time clauses, but it often implies simultaneous actions or events happening at the same time. “When” often implies sequence (one thing happens before the other).

  • Example: "While I was cooking, he was reading." (Both actions happened at the same time.)
  • Example: “When I finished my homework, I went to bed.” (Homework finished before bed.)

• "When" vs. "While" vs. “As”: All three can introduce time clauses, but “as” often suggests a smoother flow of time and can be more closely linked to events happening in a sequence. “When” is the most versatile and frequently used.

• Tense Consistency: The tense of the “when” clause should agree with the tense of the main clause. If the main clause is in the past, the ‘when’ clause should also be in the past.

Here’s a quick summary table:

Usage	Function	Example
Time Clauses	Introduces time	“When you call, I will be ready.”
Questions	Asks about time	“When are you coming?”
Conditionals	States a condition	“When it rains, we stay indoors.”
Periods of Time	Refers to a time	“When I was a child…”

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To help me give you even more specific advice, could you tell me:

• What are you trying to do with the word "when"? (e.g., write a sentence, understand a conversation, prepare for a test?)
• Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?