when it goes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when it goes" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe the timing of a particular event or action. For example, "I'll finish this project when it goes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But when it goes right, everyone wins.

The Economist

What about when it goes wrong?

The New Yorker

"But when it goes off, it contaminates".

The New York Times - Sports

And when it goes right?

The Guardian

"It's mad, weird when it goes in.

Independent

When it goes out, you stop playing.

The New York Times

"When it goes, I'm gonna miss it".

The New York Times - Sports

And when it goes, it goes".

The New York Times - Sports

What happens when it goes public?

The Guardian - Tech

"And when it goes, it really goes.

The New York Times

If and when it goes wrong, most provide support.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "when it goes", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to. This avoids ambiguity and maintains clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "when it goes" without a clear antecedent for "it". This can confuse readers and obscure the intended meaning. Always ensure the subject is explicitly defined or easily inferred from the surrounding context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it goes" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause by indicating when an action or state occurs. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this usage, affirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when it goes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase functioning as an adverbial clause of time. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts with neutral formality. For more precise or formal communication, consider alternatives like "upon its departure" or "after it finishes". When using the phrase, ensure that the subject "it" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. The phrase is quite versatile, but awareness of its appropriate contexts will enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when it departs

A direct synonym, simply replacing 'goes' with 'departs' for a slightly more formal tone.

once it's gone

This alternative emphasizes the state of being gone or finished.

when it ceases

This alternative stresses the end of an action or state of being.

after it finishes

This phrase is simple and direct, indicating a sequential action following the completion.

when it concludes

Focuses on the completion or finalization of an event or process.

upon its departure

This alternative uses more formal language to describe something leaving or ceasing to exist.

at its expiration

This alternative is suited for situations involving deadlines or expiry dates.

at its cessation

This phrase focuses on the ending or termination of something, using more sophisticated vocabulary.

on its termination

This alternative specifically refers to the official ending of something.

as it elapses

This phrase highlights the passage of time until something ends or changes.

FAQs

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

You can use "when it goes" to describe the timing or condition for something to happen, such as, "I'll start worrying "when it goes" above 100 degrees."

What does "when it goes" mean?

"When it goes" refers to the point in time or circumstance under which something ceases to function, becomes available, or transitions to a different state.

What are some alternatives to "when it goes"?

Some alternatives include "when it departs", "once it's gone", or "after it finishes" depending on the context.

Is "when it goes" formal or informal?

"When it goes" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferable in some situations.