when time allows

USAGE SUMMARY

"when time allows" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea that something can only be done if there is enough time left. For example: "I will try to finish the project when time allows."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

When time allows, I do.

The New York Times

"A bill will be brought before parliament when time allows.

The Guardian

When time allows, he spends an occasional weekend on Chesapeake Bay at a summer house.

The New York Times

But I'm still rising early and, when time allows, taking long walks.

The Guardian

When time allows, he jams with the exchange's CFO, who plays be-bop trumpet.

The Economist

The bill has been ready for more than a year, with ministers promising it will be introduced when time allows.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Who laid it there, after a long day, intending to tidy up later when time allowed?

The Washington Post

A year ago Mr. Marra, 33, was running a local coffee shop with his father and making sculpture in the storefront window when time allowed.

The New York Times

Eventually he was appointed foreman at the pottery, keeping a close and critical eye on the quality of the standard-ware and able to develop his own work when time allowed.

The Guardian

Accurate target detection occurred when time allowed for eye, head, and body movements to be made to search across the width of the search corridor.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

When time allowed, during his tenure as captain of the Arizona Coyotes, Doan could be found at Chase Field, rooting on the guys.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when time allows" to indicate a secondary action or task that will be completed if the primary obligations are fulfilled and there is sufficient time remaining.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid overusing "when time allows" in highly formal documents, like legal contracts. Opt for more precise language that clearly defines timelines and expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when time allows" functions as an adverbial clause of condition, modifying a verb by specifying the circumstances under which the action can occur. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its usage across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

33%

Science

24%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when time allows" is a versatile phrase used as an adverbial clause of condition, expressing that an action will occur if there is sufficient time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is commonly found in News & Media, Academic and Scientific sources, maintaining a neutral register suitable for diverse communications. While "when time allows" is generally acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "as time permits" in highly formal documents. To pass the time, Ludwig provides ample examples of real-world usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as time permits

Replaces "allows" with "permits", offering a slightly more formal tone.

when feasible

Focuses on the practicality of the timing, rather than just availability of time.

if time is available

States the condition in a more direct and literal way.

if there's time

A more concise and informal alternative.

as opportunity arises

Suggests taking advantage of chances rather than just having free time.

at your convenience

Shifts the emphasis to the recipient's scheduling preference.

when circumstances permit

Broader than just time, encompassing other enabling factors.

should time become available

Adds a speculative tone, suggesting uncertainty about having time.

time permitting

A shortened, more casual version of "when time allows".

depending on the time available

Explicitly mentions the dependence on time availability for something to happen.

FAQs

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

You could use phrases such as "as time permits", "when circumstances permit", or "subject to availability" to achieve a more formal tone than "when time allows".

What's a shorter, more casual way to say "when time allows"?

A shorter and more casual alternative is "time permitting", which conveys the same meaning in a less formal context.

How do I use "when time allows" correctly in a sentence?

Use "when time allows" to indicate that an action will be completed only if there is sufficient time available after other priorities are addressed. For instance, "I will review the documents "when time allows"."

Is there a difference between "when time allows" and "if time is available"?

While similar, "when time allows" often implies a conditional intention to do something, whereas "if time is available" is a more general statement about the possibility of having enough time.