even when

USAGE SUMMARY

'even when' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is true in all circumstances, even in difficult or unlikely situations. For example: "I will continue to support my team, even when they are losing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

And sometimes even when they are.

The New York Times - Sports

Even when they are not.

The New York Times

Even when they are down.

WikiHow

"Not even when they're babies.

The New Yorker

Even when they were relegated," Piazza said.

Los Angeles Times

Even when they're rude to you.

WikiHow

Especially when you're losing.

The New York Times - Sports

"When he's losing, it's Milton".

The New Yorker

— when they were developed.

The New York Times - Tech

But when they're–.

Forbes

Know when your dream interpretation is correct.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "even when" to clearly indicate that a particular condition does not alter the main outcome or action. This helps to create a sense of resilience or persistence.

Common error

Avoid using "even when" in sentences where the condition is already inherently obvious or doesn't add significant meaning. Simplification can often lead to clearer and more impactful writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "even when" functions as a subordinating conjunction, connecting a main clause with a subordinate clause that introduces a condition or circumstance. It indicates that the action or state in the main clause remains true or occurs regardless of the condition specified in the subordinate clause. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "even when" is a versatile conjunction used to indicate that something holds true regardless of specific circumstances. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from informal to formal writing. It functions as a subordinating conjunction, connecting a main clause with a conditional subordinate clause. While alternatives like "despite when" or "regardless of when" exist, "even when" provides a straightforward and widely understood way to express resilience and persistence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regardless of when

Highlights the lack of influence of the time on the outcome.

despite when

Replaces "even" with "despite", emphasizing the contrast or unexpectedness of the situation.

in spite of when

Similar to "despite when", but with a slightly different emphasis on the contrast.

even if

Shifts the focus to a hypothetical condition, making it similar but not identical.

even as

Emphasizes simultaneity and concurrence, implying a parallel action.

although when

Introduces a subordinate clause that presents a contrasting situation.

notwithstanding when

A more formal replacement for "even when", emphasizing concession.

though when

Similar to "although when", but often used in a more informal context.

while

Conveys a sense of contrast or concession, similar to "even when".

yet when

Implies a contrast or something unexpected, similar to "even when".

FAQs

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

"Even when" is used to indicate that something remains true or happens in spite of a particular circumstance. For example, "I will support you, "even when" things get tough."

What are some alternatives to "even when"?

Alternatives include phrases like "despite when", "regardless of when", or "even if", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "even when" and "even if"?

"Even when" suggests that the circumstance actually occurs, whereas "even if" introduces a hypothetical situation. For example, "I'll be there even when it rains" (it is raining) vs. "I'll be there even if it rains" (it might rain).

Can "even when" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "even when" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, you might consider using alternatives like "notwithstanding when" for a more sophisticated tone.