Laxi Dictionary

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Definition when in British English

when adverb, conjunction

adverb, conjunction
/wen/

When can be used in the following ways:

as a conjunction (connecting two clauses): When he saw me, he waved.

as a question adverb (introducing a direct or indirect question): When shall we meet?Do you know when these houses were built?

as a relative adverb (referring back to a noun and introducing a relative clause): I remember the day when the war began. (introducing a clause that is the subject, object, or complement of another clause): My proudest moment was when I received the poetry prize.

When can be left out or replaced by ‘that’ when it follows a noun and introduces a relative clause: I remember the day (that) we first met.

1

used for asking at what time something happens

1.1

used for asking at what time something happens

Example

When will we know our test results?

Example

When did the trouble start?

Example

I asked him when he was going to start work.

Example

'You'll get your money back.' 'Yes, but when?'

Example

Since when have you been in charge of the project?

Synonyms and related words
after you any chance of...? any luck?
1.2

used for asking in what kind of situation something happens

Example

When should I end a letter with 'Yours sincerely'?

Example

When is it OK to hug someone that you've just met?

Synonyms and related words
after you any chance of...? any luck?
1.3

used when someone knows or says at what time something happens, or in what situation it happens

Example

He didn't say when they would leave.

Example

It is important to know when you have had enough to drink.

Synonyms and related words
then all last
2

as soon as another action or event has finished

2.1

as soon as another action or event has finished

Example

When it stops raining, I'll show you the garden.

Synonyms and related words
after following since
2.2

at the same time as something else

Example

I always wear a hat when I work in the garden.

Example

She was often nervous when facing the camera.

Synonyms and related words
when while simultaneous
2.3

at a point during the time that something else is happening

Example

She claims she was at a friend's house when the shooting took place.

Synonyms and related words
then all last
3

used for talking about a particular time or situation

Example

The biggest surprise for Josie was when she was chosen as team captain.

Example

Do you remember the time when we took your mother camping?

Example

There are some days when everything seems to go wrong.

Synonyms and related words
then all last
4

used for introducing a situation that makes someone's action or behaviour seem surprising

Example

Why does she always drive to work when she could easily take the train?

Example

He went on protesting his innocence when he was obviously guilty.

5

used for making a general statement about something that is always true or correct

Example

We use 'an' when the next word begins with a vowel.

Example

Tonic water makes a refreshing drink when served with ice and lemon.

Definition when in British English

Related Words

Words related to when:

as/when one door closes, another one opens (phrase) cross that bridge when you come to it (phrase) a man when he’s down (phrase) I’ll believe when I see it (phrase) in doubt (phrase) if/when the balloon goes up (phrase) the occasion arises (phrase) the spirit moves you (phrase) kick someone when they are down (phrase) etc it when (phrase) say when (phrase) since when? (phrase) time was (when) (phrase) what’s .... when it’s at home?/who’s .... when they’re at home? (phrase) do you expect...? (phrase) do you think? (phrase) etc exactly (phrase) when (adverb, conjunction) when all is said and done (phrase) when someone’s back is turned (phrase) when the chips are down (phrase) when the going gets tough, the tough get going (phrase) when the mood takes you (phrase) when the time comes (phrase) when you’re ready (phrase) when your ship comes in (phrase) possible (phrase) the cat’s away (the mice will play) (phrase)