it is when

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is when" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific time or point in time, or when referring to a cause and effect relationship. Example: "I knew I had to act quickly, so I did - it was when the opportunity presented itself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is when governmental accountability is at its lowest level.

Huffington Post

It is when," he said.

The New York Times - Science

It is when.

The Guardian

"It is when they move their mouth".

The New York Times

It is when everyone gets cheap beer.

The Guardian

As it is when any manager goes.

The Guardian - Sport

It is when they are not asked that problems arise.

The New York Times

And how lonely it is when you go back inside.

The New York Times

"After we iced it is when it swelled up".

The New York Times

It is, 'When?' Nothing else is a problem.

The Economist

It is when the audience has to get involved.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is when" to clearly indicate a specific point in time or a condition that triggers an event. For example, "The system updates automatically; "it is when" the server load is lowest that the update process begins."

Common error

Avoid using "it is when" in sentences where a simple "when" clause would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive and less concise. For example, instead of ""It is when" the bell rings that the class ends", consider simply writing "The class ends when the bell rings".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is when" typically functions as an introductory clause that sets the stage for specifying a particular time, condition, or circumstance. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English, serving to highlight a specific moment or trigger.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is when" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction to emphasize a specific time or condition. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various writing contexts, especially when clarity and emphasis are desired. While versatile, be mindful of avoiding overuse in simple sentences where a more concise phrasing would suffice. With a neutral register, "it is when" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, serving to highlight the circumstances under which an event occurs, as evidenced by numerous examples from authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's the time when

Replaces "it is" with "that's the time", emphasizing the temporal aspect.

it happens when

Focuses on the occurrence of an event, using "it happens" instead of "it is".

this is when

Replaces "it" with "this", providing a more direct reference.

that is when

Similar to "this is when", but uses "that" for a slightly different emphasis.

it's at this point that

More formal, using "at this point that" to specify a particular moment.

it's at that moment that

Similar to 'it's at this point that', emphasizing a moment in time.

the time when

Shortens the phrase, focusing solely on the temporal aspect.

it is the moment that

Emphasizes the specific moment in time when something occurs.

when

Uses "when" alone to introduce the condition or time.

it's the occasion when

Highlights a specific event or instance when something happens.

FAQs

How can I use "it is when" in a sentence?

Use "it is when" to specify a particular time or condition under which something occurs. For example, ""It is when" you practice consistently that you improve".

What are some alternatives to "it is when"?

You can use alternatives such as "that's the time when", "it happens when", or simply "when" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "it is when"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "it is when", especially when you want to emphasize a specific time or condition. However, ensure the sentence structure is clear and the meaning is precise.

What's the difference between using "it is when" and just "when"?

Using "it is when" adds emphasis to the specific time or condition. While "when" is simpler and more direct, "it is when" highlights the particular moment or circumstance. For example, ""It is when" I'm relaxed that I have the best ideas" emphasizes the state of relaxation more than "I have the best ideas when I'm relaxed".