when sitting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when sitting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or conditions that occur while someone is in a seated position. Example: "Make sure to maintain good posture when sitting at your desk for long hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No bare feet (even when sitting down).

The New York Times - Sports

Subjects tended to be more sensitive to vibration when lying than when sitting or standing.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

She is "usually fine" when sitting, she said.

The New York Times - Health

She'll also attract more attention when sitting in a bar.

The Guardian - Opinion

Finally, when sitting still grew impossible, we ventured outside.

The New Yorker

A tip: be wary when sitting on blowholes.

The Guardian - Travel

Cass Sunstein and David Schkade, two academics, found that Republican-appointed judges vote more conservatively when sitting on a panel with other Republicans than when sitting with Democrats.

The Economist

If you are in severe pain when sitting or standing, bed rest can be helpful.

Harvard University

I also have lower back pain, muscle spasms mostly at night, but also when sitting.

Harvard University

One MET is the amount of oxygen used when sitting still or sleeping.

Harvard University

Pelvis rotation and skin displacement that occur when sitting make these procedures difficult to apply for ergonomic purposes.

International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions for exercises or stretches, use "when sitting" to specify that the activity should be performed in a seated position, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "when sitting" in contexts where the action could reasonably be performed standing or lying down. Be specific to avoid confusing the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when sitting" functions as an adverbial clause of time, specifying the circumstances under which an action occurs or a state exists. Ludwig shows it modifies the main clause by indicating when the described event takes place. It clarifies the timing of actions or conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

34%

News & Media

29%

Science

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "when sitting" functions as a relative clause, commonly used to specify the context or condition in which an action occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse sources, including news, science, and general instructions (WikiHow). It aims to clarify instructions, describe sensations, or provide ergonomic guidance. While "when sitting" has a neutral formality, alternative phrases like "while seated" and "in a seated position" can offer a more formal tone. The prevalence of this phrase underscores its utility in providing clarity and precision in various forms of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

while seated

Replaces "when sitting" with a more concise and formal alternative, focusing on the state of being seated.

in a seated position

Emphasizes the physical posture of sitting, providing a slightly more descriptive alternative.

upon sitting down

Focuses on the action of transitioning into a seated position, rather than the state itself.

as you sit

Offers a more direct and conversational way to refer to the act of sitting.

during sitting

A more concise, though slightly less common, way to express the same idea.

while taking a seat

Emphasizes the action of assuming a seated position, suitable for more formal contexts.

being in a chair

Specifies the use of a chair, which may be relevant in some contexts.

in a sitting posture

Focuses on the specific posture adopted when sitting.

when taking a rest

Implies that sitting is done for resting, adding a connotation of relaxation.

as one is seated

A more formal and impersonal way to say "when sitting".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when sitting" for a more formal tone?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases such as "while seated" or "in a seated position". These alternatives offer a more sophisticated and less conversational feel than "when sitting".

What are some common situations where I might use the phrase "when sitting"?

The phrase "when sitting" is commonly used when giving instructions about posture, describing physical sensations, or explaining ergonomic adjustments. It helps to specify that the action or condition occurs while someone is seated, as opposed to standing or lying down.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "when sitting"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "when sitting", as it introduces a subordinate clause. However, ensure that the main clause clearly specifies who or what is performing the action. For example: "When sitting, maintain good posture to prevent back pain."

What's a less common but still correct alternative to "when sitting"?

A less common but still correct alternative is "during sitting". While not as frequently used, it accurately conveys the same meaning of something happening while in the act of sitting. Or "as you sit" for a more conversational sentence.