when this happens

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when this happens" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you are referring to something that has already happened or may happen in the future. For example: "We need to be prepared for when this happens."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

When this 30-seat space came up for rent, Mr. Warshaw, 29, grabbed it, opening last February.

The New York Times

When this 10-minute hymn of pan-Arab pride was over, the contestants walked off stage.

The New York Times

When this H2 pulse was injected in a large amount, NO was reduced to NH3 instead of N2.

Catalysis Today

Shockingly, skeletal evidence shows that when this 65-ton specimen died, it was not yet full grown.

Independent

When this 350-foot-tall windmill is switched on next month, it will generate enough electricity to power 1,700 homes.

The New York Times

And when this 13-year-old man was asked about his fellow amputees he said this, "First they will be sad.

Harvard University

And when this 6-foot-6-inch choreographer and painter, with a big toothy grin and the oratorical style of a Caribbean James Earl Jones, thunders, the earth moves.

The New York Times

Even when this 22-year-old from Stockholm tries to sound tough - on I'm Good, I'm Gone, or Complaint Department - the results are sappy.

The Guardian - Music

When this 20-year-old star is on the screen, which is much of the time, you can barely take your eyes off her.

The New York Times

When this 32-year-old from Hamburg, Germany, started the travel Web site Travelzoo.com in April, he had no money and no original content.

The New York Times

No word yet when this S40 handset will roll out, but it shouldn't be too far off.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when this happens" to clearly indicate a cause-and-effect relationship or a sequence of events. Ensure the context makes it clear what "this" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "when this happens" if it's not immediately clear what "this" refers to. Always provide sufficient context to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when this happens" functions as an adverbial clause of time or condition. It introduces a situation or event and indicates the timing or condition under which another action or consequence will occur. Although Ludwig has not provided specific examples for the query, it confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when this happens" serves as an adverbial clause, introducing a condition or timeframe for a subsequent action. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound for creating logical connections between cause and effect. While examples are missing, the phrase holds a neutral register, suitable across various communication scenarios. Alternatives include phrases like "when this occurs" or "if this happens", each carrying subtle nuances in formality and certainty. Effective use involves ensuring that the referenced event is clearly defined to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when this occurs

Replaces "happens" with the more formal "occurs".

when this comes about

Uses "comes about" to indicate the event's realization.

should this happen

Introduces a hypothetical scenario using "should".

if this occurs

Substitutes "when" with "if" to emphasize conditionality.

if this transpires

Replaces "happens" with the more formal "transpires" and "when" with "if".

once this happens

Uses "once" to indicate the temporal sequence.

when this situation arises

Adds specificity by referring to a "situation".

when this event takes place

More formal and specific, referring to an "event".

in the event that this happens

More formal and emphatic way of expressing the conditional.

upon this happening

Uses a more formal, almost archaic construction.

FAQs

How can I use "when this happens" in a sentence?

Use "when this happens" to describe a consequence or action that follows a specific event. For example, "We need to be prepared for "when this happens"." Ensure that the event is clear from the context.

What's a more formal alternative to "when this happens"?

You can use phrases like "when this occurs" or "in the event that this happens" for a more formal tone.

Is "when this happens" interchangeable with "if this happens"?

While similar, "when this happens" implies a greater likelihood or certainty than "if this occurs". "If" suggests a hypothetical situation, whereas "when" suggests an expected one.

Can I start a sentence with "when this happens"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct to start a sentence with "when this happens". For instance, "When this happens, ensure that all safety protocols are followed."