when the subject arises

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when the subject arises" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a specific time or situation when a particular topic or issue comes up for discussion. Example: "We can address the budget concerns when the subject arises during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In that laudable category is Simon Doonan, the creative director of Barneys, who turns out to be as sunshiny as Pangloss when the subject arises.

The New York Times - Style

There is no meeting of minds on this core issue, and nothing that the pope can do except duck when the subject arises.

The New York Times

Mr. Baryshnikov is quick to squelch talk of his aura or — worse — celebrity, scrunching up his craggy face and waving his hand dismissively when the subject arises.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Lendl snapped at an ESPN inquisitor when the subject arose again: "It's a non-issue, not worth the words or the paper".

The Guardian - Sport

He recalled that Mr. Kerry had terrorists on his mind when the subject arose in his re-election campaign against Gov. William F. Weld in 1996.

The New York Times

But Coach Rex Ryan was surprisingly elusive when the subject arose Sunday after the Jets' first practice since a 26-17 road loss to the Detroit Lions on Friday night.

The New York Times - Sports

The fact that it moved house from time to time, that it seldom offered a tennis court and that its various swimming pools looked greasy, was the subject of gossip when the subject arose, but it was known that there had so far been no sexual scandals and that it was an advanced sort of school, bohemian, artistic, tolerant.

The Guardian - Books

He said that the subject arose when team owners met with officials from the players union in February.

The New York Times - Sports

The subject arose when Groundswell held a retreat last fall and the discussion touched on a project focused on dating violence and young women.

The New York Times

The subject arose when a consumer advocate's blog shined an unflattering light onto the pages of legal language that many users accept without reading when they use a Web site.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Novak said on CNN on Monday that he had not been called by anyone in the Bush administration with the information, but that the subject arose when he was reporting on a trip by Mr. Wilson to Africa.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when the subject arises" to naturally introduce a topic that emerges within a broader context, ensuring smooth transitions in your writing or speech.

Common error

Avoid using "when the subject arises" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and scholarly alternatives like "in relation to this matter" or "regarding this issue" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when the subject arises" functions as a subordinate clause, specifically an adverbial clause of time. It modifies the main clause by indicating when a particular action or situation occurs, triggered by the emergence of a specific topic.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when the subject arises" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a topic that emerges within a discussion or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its use is correct. While primarily found in news and media contexts, it may be less suitable for highly formal writing. Consider alternatives like "when the topic is brought up" or "when the matter comes up" depending on the context. Common errors include overuse in formal settings, where more precise language is preferable. Be mindful of the subtle difference compared to related phrases like "when the opportunity arises". Overall, use this phrase to ensure smooth transitions and natural topic introductions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when the topic is brought up

Focuses on the act of introducing the topic.

when the matter comes up

Uses 'matter' to refer to the issue, suggesting a potentially more formal context.

when the issue is raised

Highlights the act of raising the issue, often implying a question or problem.

when the question is posed

Emphasizes the posing of a question, indicating a specific inquiry.

when the discussion turns to

Indicates a shift in conversation towards the subject.

when the conversation shifts to

Suggests a change in the direction of the conversation.

when the point is addressed

Focuses on addressing a specific point or detail.

when the theme emerges

Suggests a theme or recurring element becomes apparent.

when the occasion presents itself

Indicates an opportunity for the subject to be discussed.

when the opportunity arises

Focuses on a favorable moment for the subject to surface.

FAQs

How can I use "when the subject arises" in a sentence?

You can use "when the subject arises" to introduce a topic that naturally comes up in conversation or discussion. For example, "We should discuss the budget /s/when+the+subject+arises during the next meeting".

What's a more formal alternative to "when the subject arises"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "regarding the matter", "concerning the issue", or "in relation to the topic" instead of "when the subject arises" to maintain a professional tone.

How is "when the subject arises" different from "when the opportunity arises"?

"When the subject arises" indicates a natural occurrence or introduction of a topic. "When the opportunity arises" implies a favorable moment or chance to do something.

Is "when the subject arises" suitable for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "when the subject arises" might be too informal for some academic contexts. Consider more precise and formal alternatives such as "in connection with this topic" or "with regard to this subject".