when it suits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when it suits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is done at a time that is convenient or appropriate for someone. Example: "She only participates in meetings when it suits her schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This means that a cricket is limited in its ability to be both exploratory and shy when it suits it.

Behavioral Ecology

"People are only British when it suits".

Independent

And when it suits her, she does.

The Guardian

And they play this card when it suits them.

The Economist

We all love the First Amendment – when it suits us.

The New York Times

But that policy is applied only when it suits them.

The Economist

Neither does the law, when it suits him.

The Guardian - Opinion

We can use it only when it suits us.

The Washington Post

Renée will do it when it suits her.

The New Yorker

And a very long memory when it suits them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Balls is keen on accountability when it suits him.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when it suits" to clearly indicate that the timing of an action or decision is dependent on someone's convenience or benefit. This adds a layer of understanding to the motivation behind the timing.

Common error

Avoid using "when it suits" when you intend to convey obligation or necessity. This phrase indicates a choice or convenience, not a requirement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it suits" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying a verb or clause by specifying the condition under which the action occurs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and common phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "when it suits" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial clause indicating that an action is performed based on someone's convenience or benefit. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Its usage spans various contexts, particularly news and media, and carries a neutral tone. To ensure clarity, it's best used to convey choice rather than obligation. Consider alternatives like "at one's convenience" or "when it is opportune" to fine-tune your message. When it comes to the usage of the phrase, remember that context matters.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at one's convenience

Focuses on convenience as the primary factor.

when the time is right

Emphasizes the opportune moment for action.

when it is opportune

Highlights the favorable conditions for taking action.

as one sees fit

Indicates acting according to one's own judgment and preference.

when it benefits someone

Specifically points out the benefit derived from the action.

at the appropriate juncture

Implies a carefully chosen moment for action.

when the opportunity arises

Stresses the emergence of a favorable chance.

when circumstances allow

Highlights the role of external conditions in enabling action.

when deemed necessary

Suggests that action is taken only when it is considered essential.

when it is advantageous

Directly refers to the advantageous nature of the timing.

FAQs

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

You can use "when it suits" to indicate that an action is performed at a time that is convenient or beneficial for someone. For example, "They only enforce the rules "when it suits them"".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "when it suits"?

Some alternatives to "when it suits" include "at one's convenience", "when the time is right", or "when it is opportune", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "when it suits"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms that "when it suits" is perfectly acceptable in written English.

What is the difference between "when it suits" and "if it suits"?

"When it suits" implies that the action will definitely happen at some point when the conditions are right for someone. "If it suits", on the other hand, suggests a conditional scenario where the action may or may not happen, depending on whether it is suitable.