when it is finished

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when it is finished" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing tasks that have a beginning and end point. For example: "I will start painting the bedroom today and it should be completed by the end of the week, when it is finished."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This scheme fills the gap that opens up when the cost of renovating a site is much higher than its market value when it is finished.

The Economist

You will know when it is finished.

The New York Times - Magazine

But when it is finished, we could have a laugh.

The Guardian - Sport

And when it is finished, everyone will cheer the maestro.

The New York Times - Arts

When it is finished, the ark will be a kind of teaching tool.

The New York Times

The new airport in Warsaw will be magnificent when it is finished.

The Economist

The project is expected to cost about 500 million Canadian dollars when it is finished.

The New York Times

When it is finished, it can be switched off and packed away.

The New York Times

When it is finished, Upton will cram 45 properties into a hectare (18 per acre).

The Economist

They can go back when it is finished if they choose.

The New York Times

"When it is finished," Mr. Scholder said, "each skull will be individual.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when it is finished" to clearly indicate the timing of an action or event that depends on the completion of a preceding task. This phrase is versatile and suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Ensure that the subject of "it" is clear from the context. If the subject is ambiguous, rephrase to specify what exactly is being finished to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it is finished" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause by indicating when the action in that clause will occur. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

33%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "when it is finished" is a grammatically correct and very common adverbial clause of time, used to indicate the timing of an action contingent upon the completion of another. It enjoys broad applicability across various registers, from neutral news reports to more informal wiki guides, as indicated by the source analysis. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While versatile, clarity is paramount; ensure the subject of "it" is unambiguous. Consider alternatives like "once it's done" or "upon its completion" based on the desired formality. Best practice involves using the phrase to sequence events clearly. Frequent usage in news and media underscores its widespread acceptance and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

once it's done

More casual and concise.

as soon as it's finalized

Highlights the immediate action after finalization.

after it concludes

Emphasizes the concluding action or event.

once it reaches completion

Focuses on the process leading to completion.

following its resolution

Focuses on resolving a problem or task.

after it has been accomplished

Emphasizes the achievement of a goal.

upon its completion

Uses a more formal tone and structure.

on its accomplishment

More concise and slightly formal.

subsequent to its finalization

Highly formal and emphasizes the final stage.

at the completion thereof

Archaic and highly formal.

FAQs

How can I use "when it is finished" in a sentence?

You can use "when it is finished" to describe an event that will happen after something else is completed. For example, "The building will be open to the public "when it is finished"."

What are some alternatives to "when it is finished"?

Some alternatives include "once it is done", "after it is completed", or "upon its completion", depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "upon its completion" instead of "when it is finished"?

Yes, "upon its completion" is generally considered more formal than "when it is finished". The latter is suitable for most contexts, while the former is best reserved for formal writing or speech.

Can "when it is finished" be used in both spoken and written English?

Yes, "when it is finished" is appropriate for both spoken and written English. It is a versatile phrase that is easily understood in various settings and registers.