when it comes to

USAGE SUMMARY

"when it comes to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to introduce a topic or to express opinion on a certain topic. Example: When it comes to digital media, we need to be careful about what we share online.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

RACE matters when it comes to wealth.

The Economist

He trains when it comes to him.

The New Yorker

"Except when it comes to sweets.

The New Yorker

And when it comes to the budget?

The New York Times

Especially when it comes to real estate.

The New York Times

Especially when it comes to modernism.

The New York Times

Especially when it comes to fava beans.

The New York Times

But when it comes to alcohol, no.

The New York Times

Particularly when it comes to spending pledges.

Independent

When it comes to TV, I mean.

The Economist

Especially when it comes to bowls.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "when it comes to", ensure the subject following the phrase is clearly defined and relevant to the preceding context. Avoid abrupt shifts in topic that could confuse the audience.

Common error

Refrain from using "when it comes to" repeatedly within a single paragraph. This can make your writing sound monotonous. Instead, vary your sentence structure with alternative phrases like "regarding" or "in terms of".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it comes to" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to introduce a particular topic or aspect within a broader discussion. As demonstrated in Ludwig, it serves to narrow the focus and specify what is being considered.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

28%

Science

24%

Academia

21%

Less common in

Wiki

18%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when it comes to" is a versatile and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to introduce a specific topic or aspect of a broader discussion. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While it is generally considered neutral, it's essential to avoid overuse and vary sentence structure for enhanced readability. Alternatives like "regarding" or "in terms of" can add variety to your writing. Ultimately, mastering the use of "when it comes to" and its alternatives can significantly improve the clarity and effectiveness of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding

A more concise and formal way to introduce a topic.

in terms of

Focuses on specific aspects or criteria being considered.

concerning

Similar to "regarding", but may imply a sense of worry or importance.

in relation to

Emphasizes a connection or comparison between topics.

as for

Introduces a new topic, often after discussing something else.

with respect to

A formal alternative, often used in academic or professional settings.

on the subject of

A more direct way to announce a change in topic.

thinking about

Shifts focus to the process of consideration or evaluation.

when discussing

Emphasizes the act of having a conversation about a particular matter.

if we consider

Highlights a specific viewpoint or factor to be analyzed.

FAQs

How can I use "when it comes to" in a sentence?

Use "when it comes to" to introduce a specific topic or aspect you want to discuss. For example, "When it comes to digital media, we need to be careful about what we share online."

What are some alternatives to "when it comes to"?

You can use alternatives like "regarding", "concerning", or "in terms of", depending on the context.

Is "when it comes to" formal or informal?

"When it comes to" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "with respect to" might be preferred in certain professional settings.

How does "when it comes to" differ from "regarding"?

"When it comes to" introduces a specific topic, while "regarding" is more direct and can indicate concern or relevance. For instance, "When it comes to safety, always wear a helmet" versus "I am writing to you regarding the safety regulations."