when it suits you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when it suits you" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something can be done at a time that is convenient for the person being addressed. Example: "Feel free to call me when it suits you; I'm available most of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

You might complain about intrusion or misrepresentation, but you animals play the publicity game when it suits you.

The Guardian - Opinion

You plug it in, set the date and time and programme it to do the housework when it suits you.

The Guardian - Tech

That is why most VCRs today are used to play rented films and not, as originally expected, to watch television programmes when it suits you.

The Economist

Don't convenience-shop for rhyme – that is, begin a poem using para- or assonance rhyme and slip into full rhyme when it suits you (and vice versa).

The Guardian - Books

Replicating a seminar group on Facebook allows you to contribute to group revision when it suits you and exchange past papers and interesting links.

The Guardian

"I suppose you're attractive... to other people, when it suits you," he says to her, savoring each pause like old brandy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

"On the other hand @DouglasCarswell, you ditched your opposition to centrally-imposed candidates sharpish when it suited you eh?" During the Q&A session Mr Carswell made remarks that suggest he is critical of Mr Farage's leadership.

Independent

What you want to do is keep the visitation minimal and under your control--and you can potentially allow more, when and if it suits you.

Huffington Post

James must learn that you cannot self-proclaim humility when it suits your purpose; you must earn it.

The New York Times - Sports

Making a quality time for you when it suits him mostly falsely blaming and accusing you senselessly.

WikiHow

It being 2016 you will have to navigate the business of small plates, and the announcement that dishes will come to you when it suits the kitchen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when it suits you" to offer flexibility and show consideration for someone's schedule or preferences. It's particularly effective in invitations, requests, or when offering options.

Common error

Avoid using "when it suits you" as a veiled expectation. Ensure that the flexibility offered is genuine, not a passive-aggressive demand for compliance at the other person's expense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it suits you" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying a verb or clause by indicating the specific timing under which an action can or should occur. Ludwig examples show its use in offering flexibility or indicating a condition under which something is acceptable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when it suits you" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to convey flexibility and consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English. It functions as an adverbial clause of time, often employed in news, business, and general communication to offer convenience. Alternatives such as "at your convenience" or "when you're ready" can be used to adjust the level of formality. When using this phrase, ensure that the offered flexibility is genuine and not a disguised expectation. In essence, use "when it suits you" to promote autonomy while being mindful of clarity and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at your convenience

Focuses on making something easy and suitable for someone's schedule.

when you're ready

Emphasizes readiness and personal timing for initiating an action.

when you feel like it

Indicates acting upon personal desire or inclination.

as you see fit

Suggests acting according to one's own judgment and discretion.

when the time is right

Highlights selecting the optimal moment to proceed.

at your leisure

Indicates freedom to act without haste or pressure.

when you have the chance

Emphasizes opportunity and availability to undertake something.

when you are available

Highlights doing something when one has the time and is not otherwise occupied.

as you prefer

Highlights action based on personal preference.

according to your schedule

Indicates aligning actions with one's planned timetable.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when it suits you" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "at your convenience" or "at a time that is convenient for you".

Is "when it suits you" appropriate for business communication?

Yes, "when it suits you" is generally appropriate for business communication, especially when offering options or flexibility. However, ensure the context doesn't imply a lack of urgency when timing is critical.

What's a more casual way to say "when it suits you"?

More casual alternatives include "when you feel like it" or "when you're ready". Be mindful of your audience and relationship when choosing a casual alternative.

In what situations is it best to avoid using "when it suits you"?

Avoid using "when it suits you" when setting firm deadlines or when immediate action is required. In such cases, specify a precise timeframe to avoid ambiguity and ensure timely action.