when it becomes clear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when it becomes clear" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a point in time when something is understood or evident. Example: "We will proceed with the project when it becomes clear that we have enough resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

How will the center-right adapt when it becomes clear that its dependence on white voters threatens its ability to compete nationally?

The New York Times

But it may not be until the spring when it becomes clear exactly what Bell Labs has up its sleeve.

Forbes

Change the workout routine when it becomes clear that the existing one has outlived its usefulness, namely when what you're doing feels "too easy".

WikiHow

These are the moments when it becomes clear why nobody wants to talk about politics anymore.

The New York Times

And even when it becomes clear that a painting was looted, there may be rival claims.

The Economist

When it becomes clear that he doesn't, we never quite forgive him for it.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

That, they said, was when it became clear that the deal might unravel.

The New York Times

When it became clear that a bird was losing, its minder removed the cage.

The New York Times

It was quietly suspended in March 2014, when it became clear it was greatly undercounting such deaths.

The Guardian

When it became clear that Mr. Assange had won asylum, the response was a muted joy.

The New York Times

When it became clear that Buhari had won the election, Jonathan conceded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when it becomes clear" to signal a shift in understanding or a turning point in a situation. It's often effective for introducing a consequence or a necessary action following the realization of something.

Common error

Avoid using "when it becomes clear" in situations where the clarity is already implied or obvious. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound verbose. Instead, opt for more direct phrasing if the clarity is self-evident.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it becomes clear" functions as an adverbial clause of time, setting the condition under which the main clause's action or state occurs. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

12%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "when it becomes clear" serves as a temporal marker, indicating a shift to understanding or clarity that prompts a subsequent action or realization. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and highly versatile. The phrase maintains a neutral tone, making it appropriate for many writing styles, from news reports to academic papers. While very common in usage, avoid overuse in simple statements to maintain clarity and conciseness. Consider alternatives like "once it is clear" or "when it is evident" to improve the diversity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when it is evident

Emphasizes the state of being easily seen or understood, a more direct synonym.

when it is apparent

Highlights the quality of being obvious or easily perceived.

once it is clear

Indicates a point in time immediately after clarity is achieved, using "once" to express timing.

as soon as it is clear

Stresses the immediacy with which something follows the point of clarity.

when it is obvious

Highlights the unmistakable nature of the situation becoming known.

when it is realized

Focuses on the moment of understanding or comprehension.

upon clarification

A more formal way to express something becoming clear, often used in official contexts.

in light of the evidence

More formal, suggesting a decision or action based on presented evidence.

with increasing clarity

Focuses on the process of becoming clear over time, rather than a specific moment.

as understanding dawns

A more literary and metaphorical way to describe comprehension arising.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when it becomes clear" for variety?

You can use alternatives like "when it is evident", "once it is clear", or "as soon as it is clear" to add variety to your writing.

Is "when it becomes clear" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "when it becomes clear" is suitable for formal writing, but consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "upon clarification" or "in light of the evidence" depending on the specific context.

How does "when it becomes clear" differ from "if it is clear"?

"When it becomes clear" implies a transition or a point in time when something is realized. "If it is clear" suggests a condition or a hypothetical situation, without the element of a transition or realization.

What is the grammatical function of "when it becomes clear" in a sentence?

"When it becomes clear" typically introduces an adverbial clause, providing context or timing for the main clause's action or state.