a time when

USAGE SUMMARY

"a time when" is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually suggests a specific time in the past when something occurred or was true. For example: I remember a time when everyone thought flying cars would be commonplace by now.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Describe a time when . . .

The New Yorker

There was a time when they counted.

The Guardian

There was a time when we couldn't".

The New Yorker

There was once a time when presidents were great men.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There was once a time when middlemen were indispensable.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Tip: Choose a time when your computer is turned on.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There was a time when the violin was technology.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This at a time when man wasn't even heard of!

University of California, Berkeley

a time when they made their parents very happy.

Yale University

Cranch can't remember a time when she wasn't moving.

University of California, Berkeley

There was a time when the Maldivians were more nomadic.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a time when" to introduce a clause that provides specific details or context about a past event or situation. For example: "I remember "a time when" phones were only used for calling."

Common error

Avoid mixing tenses when using "a time when". Ensure the tense in the "when" clause is consistent with the main clause. For example, instead of "I remember "a time when" I will go to the beach every day", use "I remember "a time when" I went to the beach every day".

Linguistic Context

"A time when" functions as a relative clause introducer, linking a main clause to a subordinate clause that provides temporal context. Ludwig's examples show it introducing descriptions of past circumstances or events, adding detail to the main statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a time when" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce clauses that provide temporal context. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's suitable for various registers, from informal to formal, and appears most frequently in news, academic, and wiki contexts. When using this phrase, ensure tense consistency and consider alternatives like "during an era when" or "at a moment that" to fine-tune your meaning. By avoiding common errors and leveraging best practices, you can effectively use "a time when" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during an era when

This alternative specifies a longer period, emphasizing historical context more than a specific moment.

in a period where

Similar to "during an era when", but slightly less formal and emphasizes a broader span of time.

at a moment that

Focuses on a specific point in time rather than a duration, adding a sense of significance.

in circumstances where

Shifts the focus from time to the conditions present, emphasizing situational context.

on an occasion when

Emphasizes a specific instance or event, often with a sense of formality.

in a situation where

Focuses on the circumstances and conditions, rather than the timing itself.

at the point that

Highlights a precise instant or turning point.

when the situation was

Directly describes a state of affairs at a particular time.

during the period that

Highlights a duration, often used to provide background information or context.

under conditions that

Emphasizes the state or circumstances in which something occurred.

FAQs

How can I use "a time when" in a sentence?

"A time when" introduces a clause that describes a particular period or situation in the past. For example, "There was "a time when you had eyes to see"".

What are some alternatives to "a time when"?

Alternatives include phrases like "during an era when", "in a period where", or "at a moment that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a time where" instead of "a time when"?

While "where" can sometimes replace "when" in certain contexts, it's generally more accurate to use "when" when referring to a period of time. "Where" is typically used to indicate a location. Thus, "a time when" is preferable.

What is the difference between "a time when" and "at a time when"?

The phrases "a time when" and "at a time when" are largely interchangeable and often carry the same meaning. The inclusion of "at" adds a slight emphasis, but the core meaning remains consistent. An example could be: "Mr. Azevêdo takes over "at a time when" the W.T.O. — established as a forum for setting global trade rules, reducing barriers to commerce ...".