Pronunciation: /wɛn/

Definitions of when

adverb used to introduce a question about time

Example Sentences

A1 When I wake up, I brush my teeth.

A2 I always feel happy when I see my friends.

B1 When it rains, I like to stay indoors and read a book.

B2 I feel more productive when I have a clear plan for the day.

C1 When I was younger, I used to play the piano every day.

C2 I find it difficult to concentrate when there is too much noise around me.

conjunction used to introduce a clause indicating a point in time

Example Sentences

A1 When it rains, I use an umbrella.

A2 I always feel happy when I see my friends.

B1 I will call you when I arrive at the airport.

B2 When I was younger, I used to play soccer every day.

C1 When the company announced the merger, the stock prices soared.

C2 When it comes to decision-making, I always trust my instincts.

Examples of when in a Sentence

formal When the meeting starts, please make sure to have all your documents ready.

informal When we get to the party, let's grab some drinks first.

slang When he finally shows up, we can start the game.

figurative When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

Grammatical Forms of when

past tense

when

plural

whens

comparative

whener

superlative

whensest

present tense

when

future tense

will when

perfect tense

have when

continuous tense

being when

singular

when

positive degree

when

infinitive

to when

gerund

whening

participle

whened

Origin and Evolution of when

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The word 'when' originated from the Old English word 'hwanne' which evolved from the Proto-Germanic word 'hwanne'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'when' has retained its basic meaning of indicating a specific time or moment, but its usage has expanded to include questions about timing, duration, and condition.