when it comes up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when it comes up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a situation or topic that arises or is mentioned at a later time. Example: "We can discuss the budget when it comes up in the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These days a referendum campaign group only truly wins its colours when it comes up with a wheeze that is promptly laughed out of court.

The Guardian

The government is considering replenishing its share of the safety net when it comes up for renewal in April.

The New York Times

I deal with risk when it comes up'".

The Guardian

"When it comes up with Roy now, I think, 'It has happened before'".

Independent

"When it comes up every night, within the show, it's monumental.

The Guardian - Music

The work stops only when it comes up against the foundations of Palestinian homes.

The Guardian

"If and when it comes up, we'll address it then," an F.B.I. spokesman, Richard Kolko, said.

The New York Times

"I just kind of roll my eyes when it comes up at conferences," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

In O'Connor's fictional world, carnality, when it comes up at all, is brutal and hilariously symbolic.

The New Yorker

Once Congress passes a tax break, lawmakers typically extend it when it comes up for renewal.

The New York Times

But Facebook isn't a utopia, and when it comes up short, Dave Willner tries to clean up.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when it comes up" to smoothly introduce a topic or action that will be addressed at a later, unspecified time. It helps maintain a natural flow in conversation or writing.

Common error

Avoid using "when it comes up" when a specific timeframe or trigger is known. Instead, opt for phrases that provide clarity, such as "at the next meeting" or "after the report is submitted".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it comes up" functions as an adverbial clause, modifying a verb or clause by indicating the timing or condition under which an action will occur. Ludwig examples show its use in introducing future discussions or addressing potential issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when it comes up" is a versatile phrase used to refer to future events or discussions. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and commonly used. It functions as an adverbial clause to indicate timing or condition. While its register is neutral, it is most frequently found in news media and general contexts. For more formal settings, alternatives like "when it arises" might be preferable. The key is to use it appropriately based on the specific context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when it arises

Focuses on the act of something appearing or occurring.

when it emerges

Emphasizes the process of something becoming known or visible.

when it surfaces

Suggests something previously hidden is now being revealed.

when it transpires

Implies that something becomes known or proven to be the case.

if it arises

Presents a conditional scenario where something may or may not occur.

should it happen

Expresses a contingency with a slightly more formal tone.

when the time comes

Indicates a specific moment in the future when something will be relevant.

once it's brought up

Highlights that the subject needs to be introduced to be discussed.

if the occasion arises

Highlights opportunity or need for the topic.

as it unfolds

Highlights the process of topic becoming more clear or understood.

FAQs

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

You can use "when it comes up" to refer to a future moment or situation. For example: "We'll discuss the budget "when it comes up" in the meeting".

What can I say instead of "when it comes up"?

You can use alternatives like "when it arises", "when it emerges", or "if it arises" depending on the specific context.

Is "when it comes up" formal or informal?

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

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

"When it comes up" implies a higher likelihood of the event occurring, while "if it comes up" suggests a more conditional scenario where the event may or may not happen.