when it changes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when it changes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation or condition that occurs at the moment something undergoes a transformation or alteration. Example: "I will notify you when it changes, so you can adjust your plans accordingly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

An MN is designed to exchange numerous mobility messages, including binding updates and binding acknowledgments when it changes its network link, thereby quickly depleting its energy.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

New York and Ohio are to join the Big Game in May, when it changes its name to Mega Millions.

The New York Times

The firm could lose some clients when it changes its policies, but it could just as easily pick up clients from other accounting firms making similar changes.

The New York Times

Although administrative law doctrine requires courts to defer to an agency's reasonable statutory interpretation, the doctrine is unclear as to whether an agency gets less deference when it changes its own prior interpretation.

Harvard University

In ad hoc networks the identity of the attacker may change when it changes its point of attachment.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

I will endorse this band when it changes its name to "job".

Vice

In Semitic and Cushitic languages, a noun may change its gender when it changes from singular to plural, a feature known as "gender polarity".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Saltation matrices allow us to handle any jumps in the system (or its linearisation) when it changes from one dynamical regime to another.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

Except when it changes the formula.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The hospital first started using the devices in mid-2008, when it changed its contracting policies.

The New York Times

That magazine began taking advertising in 2002, when it changed its name from National Geographic World.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when it changes" to clearly indicate a condition that triggers an action or state, ensuring the timing of events is well-understood. It's best for describing reactions or adaptations to alterations.

Common error

Avoid using "when it changes" when describing static conditions or gradual trends. This phrase indicates a discrete moment of alteration, not a continuous process. Instead, use phrases like "as it evolves" for ongoing changes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it changes" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause by specifying when an action or event takes place. As supported by Ludwig, this construction is widely recognized as grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "when it changes" is a common and grammatically sound construction used to denote a specific point in time coinciding with a transformation. As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase effectively establishes a temporal relationship between two events, indicating that one event occurs at or after the moment the other changes. It is most frequently observed in news and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. Alternatives like "as it transforms" or "once it shifts" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context. Understanding the scope and timing implied by "when it changes" is crucial for clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

once it shifts

Implies a complete change from one state to another, with an emphasis on the finality of the change.

as it transforms

Focuses on the process of changing rather than the specific instance.

during its modification

Similar to "when it changes", but puts more emphasis on the act of modifying.

as it undergoes a transformation

Emphasizes a fundamental change in form or nature.

upon its alteration

Emphasizes the moment the change occurs, using a more formal vocabulary.

while it is being altered

Focuses on the ongoing nature of the change.

at the point of transition

Highlights the transition itself, implying a shift from one state to another.

at the moment of its conversion

Highlights a specific conversion event.

in the process of its adaptation

Focuses on the adaptation aspect, suggesting a change to better suit new conditions.

subsequent to its adjustment

Highlights the consequence of the adjustment.

FAQs

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

Use "when it changes" to describe a condition or reaction that occurs the moment something transforms or alters. For example, "Update the software "when it changes" version."

What are some alternatives to "when it changes"?

Alternatives include "as it transforms", "once it shifts", or "upon its alteration", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is it correct to say "when it is changing" instead of "when it changes"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "When it is changing" emphasizes the process of change, while ""when it changes"" emphasizes the moment the change occurs.

What's the difference between "when it changes" and "if it changes"?

"When it changes" implies that the change is expected to happen, while "if it changes" suggests that the change is uncertain.