when the door

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when the door" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to an event or action that occurs in relation to a door being opened, closed, or interacted with. Example: "When the door creaked open, everyone turned to see who had entered the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When the door opens, they understand why.

The New York Times

"When the door is shut, no one knows you're inside".

The New York Times

When the door opened, she could not look up.

The New Yorker

He was still ringing it when the door opened.

The New Yorker

When the door opens, you feel it even more.

Independent

And when the door was opened, it was Dalen".

The New York Times - Science

Sanders pounced when the door opened a crack.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then I released him, when the door opened".

The Guardian

When the door opens, she cannot look up.

The New Yorker

And when the door swings shut, New York is gone.

The New York Times - Food

When the door opened, Danielle tumbled out of the car.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "when the door", ensure the subsequent clause clearly relates to the action or state resulting directly from the door's position or movement. For example, "When the door opens, a wave of heat rushes out."

Common error

Avoid using "when the door" as a vague introductory phrase. Ensure the main clause is logically and directly connected to the door's action. For instance, instead of "When the door opened, I remembered to buy milk", use a more relevant consequence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when the door" functions as a temporal adverbial clause, introducing a condition or time frame for the main clause. According to Ludwig, the phrase is used in contexts where something happens concurrently with the door opening or closing. It modifies the verb in the main clause by specifying when the action occurs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

23%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "when the door" is a grammatically sound and versatile temporal adverbial clause widely used to connect the action of a door with subsequent events. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. Predominantly found in news and media, and wiki sources, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. While its meaning is straightforward, writers should ensure a clear and logical connection between the door's action and the main clause. Consider alternatives like "as the door opens" or "the moment the door opens" for nuanced emphasis. By addressing common errors and understanding its function, "when the door" can be used effectively to enhance clarity and create a temporal relationship within sentences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as the door opens

Changes the focus from 'when' (a specific time) to 'as' (during the action), implying simultaneity.

the moment the door opens

Emphasizes the immediacy of the action following the opening of the door.

as soon as the door opens

Similar to 'the moment', emphasizes the immediate sequence of events.

the instant the door opens

Highlights the very precise timing of events related to the door opening.

upon the door opening

More formal and literary, indicating something happens immediately after the door opens.

once the door is opened

Shifts focus to the condition being met (the door being opened) before something else can happen.

with the opening of the door

More descriptive and can be used to add emphasis to the manner or style in which the door is opened.

when the doorway

Refers to the space or opening created by the door, rather than the door itself.

when the portal

Replaces "door" with a more evocative synonym, suggesting a grander or more significant entrance.

on the threshold

Refers to the entry point, emphasizing the moment of crossing into a new space.

FAQs

How can I use "when the door" in a sentence?

Use "when the door" to describe events happening simultaneously with or immediately after a door's opening or closing. For example, "When the door closed, the room fell silent."

What are some alternatives to "when the door"?

You can use alternatives like "as the door opens", "the moment the door opens", or "upon the door opening" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "when the door opens" or "when the door opened"?

The choice between "when the door opens" and "when the door opened" depends on the tense of the main clause. Use "opens" (present tense) for habitual actions or future events, and "opened" (past tense) for past events.

What's the difference between "when the door is open" and "when the door opens"?

"When the door is open" describes a state, while "when the door opens" describes an action. For example, "When the door is open, the light shines through" versus "When the door opens, I'll come in."