Using When – English Grammar Lesson

Introduction

Welcome to NJCLT's comprehensive English grammar lesson on using 'when'. In this detailed guide, we will delve into various contexts and structures where the word 'when' plays a crucial role. By the end of this lesson, you will have a solid understanding of how to use 'when' correctly in your English language communication.

The Basic Usage of 'When'

In its most basic form, 'when' is an adverb that functions as a conjunction. It is commonly used to ask questions about time or to indicate a specific point in time. For example:

• "When did you arrive?"
• "I will call you when I reach home."

Using 'When' in Conditional Clauses

Additionally, 'when' can be used in conditional clauses to express a situation where something only happens if a particular condition is met. This is known as a conditional 'when'. Let's explore some examples:

• "When I finish my homework, I can go out to play."
• "When it rains, I prefer to stay indoors."

Substitutes for 'When'

While 'when' is the most common word used to talk about time, there are instances where certain substitutes can be employed:

• "At the time that" - This can be used instead of 'when' to describe a specific time frame.
• "Whenever" - This is a more casual substitute that implies an indefinite or repeated occurrence.
• "If" - In conditional clauses, 'if' can often be used interchangeably with 'when'.

Using 'When' in Relative Clauses

'When' is also frequently used in relative clauses to provide additional information about a time or situation. These clauses are introduced by the pronouns 'that' or 'which'. Consider the following examples:

• "The day when I got my first job was unforgettable."
• "The moment when the sun sets is the most beautiful time of day."

Common Mistakes with 'When'

When using 'when', it's important to avoid some common mistakes that learners often make. Understanding these pitfalls will help you enhance your accuracy and fluency in English:

• Confusing 'when' with 'where': While 'when' refers to time, 'where' refers to location. Be cautious not to mix these up.
• Incorrect word order: Ensure that 'when' is placed at the beginning or middle of a clause, and not at the end.
• Using 'when' instead of 'if': Remember that 'if' and 'when' have different implications in conditional sentences.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have now completed NJCLT's English grammar lesson on using 'when'. With the knowledge gained from this comprehensive guide, you can confidently express yourself while discussing time-related matters. Continue practicing and incorporating 'when' into your conversations to further enhance your language proficiency. Keep an eye out for more informative lessons from NJCLT!