times when

USAGE SUMMARY

"times when" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to specific moments or periods in time. Example: There were times when I doubted my abilities, but I always pushed through and succeeded. This phrase can also be used to introduce a clause or phrase that describes a specific instance or event. Example: Times when we were together were some of the happiest moments of my life.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There are times when the barbs sting.

The New York Times

There were times when survival seemed impossible.

Independent

At times when the north winds freshen.

The New Yorker

"There are times when you _________ can't cross".

The New York Times

Are there times when words don't suffice?

The New York Times

"There are times when she's almost blank".

The New Yorker

There's times when I've lamented, there's times when I've rejoiced, there's times when I've been deeply indifferent.

The Guardian - Music

There were times when Clemens overthrew receivers.

The New York Times

"There were times when I threw microphones.

The New York Times - Magazine

But there are times when wankery works.

The New Yorker

But there are times when you should.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure clarity by providing specific details following "times when" to avoid ambiguity. For example: "There are "times when" assessments demand more time, and times when the curriculum is unintentionally narrowed."

Common error

Avoid using "times when" repeatedly in the same paragraph or section. Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms like "occasions where" or "instances when" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "times when" functions primarily as an introductory phrase for clauses specifying conditions or occurrences. Ludwig shows its usage to introduce a scenario, situation, or period in which something happens or is true. As examples of the phrase within the search results from Ludwig show "There are "times when" wankery works" or "There are "times when" I am strong".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

22%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "times when" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to introduce clauses specifying conditions, situations, or occurrences. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts and has neutral register. To improve writing, vary usage with synonyms and provide details to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

occasions when

Synonymous replacement, focusing on specific instances or events.

instances where

Highlights particular situations or cases.

periods in which

Emphasizes extended durations or intervals.

situations where

Focuses on specific circumstances or contexts.

moments in time when

More emphatic and descriptive, highlighting precise points in time.

junctures at which

A more formal and less common variant.

stages where

Suggests progressions or phases within a process.

phases when

Highlights periods of transition or development.

dates on which

Refers to specific calendar days when something occurs.

ages in which

Implies broader historical or epochal contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "times when" to introduce a clause that describes a particular situation or condition. For example, "There are "times when" it is better to remain silent."

What are some alternatives to "times when"?

Alternatives include "occasions when", "instances where", or "situations where", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "times when" and "moments when"?

"Times when" generally refers to a broader period or instances, while "moments when" emphasizes a specific, often brief, point in time.

When is it appropriate to use "times when" in formal writing?

The phrase "times when" is acceptable in most formal contexts, but consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "junctures at which" in highly academic or technical writing.