when time came

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when time came" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate a specific moment in the past when an event or decision occurred. Example: "When time came, she knew she had to make a choice." Alternative expressions include "when the moment arrived" and "when the time was right."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

After the election, however, when time came to name a budget director, Obama sent a different message.

The New York Times - Magazine

But when time came to take a break, I found the fingers of my left hand clutching my mandolin's neck so they would barely move.

The New York Times

When time came to replace the old family S.U.V., we would be more likely to consider a more fuel-efficient option.

The New York Times

"When time came to secure housing, I was too broke to make the trip to Syracuse, so I called the program secretary and asked if she knew of any apartments.

The New Yorker

In a much-publicized gesture, she arranged for a flock of sheep to graze on the White House lawn; when time came to shear them, the $50,000 that the wool brought at auction went to the war effort.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When time came to part with the now tired vehicle, Ms. Murphy related its history to a friend, who told another friend, who told an employee of the auction house.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The intensely collaborative nature of a musical tends to be forgotten when time comes to apportion blame.

The New York Times

He demonstrates humility, but when time comes up to speak, he says what's on his mind".

The New York Times - Sports

When time comes to move nests, the plucky little insects vote by quorum.

TechCrunch

I will do that when time comes ….

Global Health Action

'So, when time comes to conduct our normal duties, you find that the same time you are required to attend clients at the office as a counsellor.

Human Resources for Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when time came" to clearly indicate a past event or decision that occurred at a specific moment. It adds a sense of timing and context to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "when time came" when referring to future events. This phrase is strictly for past occurrences. For future events, consider using "when the time comes" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when time came" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause by specifying when an action or event occurred. Ludwig AI validates this usage, showing it's commonly employed to introduce a specific point in the past.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when time came" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to set a temporal context for events in the past. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent use across various sources, primarily news and media. While versatile, it's crucial to avoid using it for future events. Alternatives such as "when the moment arrived" or "at the appointed time" can add nuance or formality. Remember to use "when time came" to provide clarity and context to past narratives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when the moment arrived

Emphasizes the arrival of a specific moment, focusing on the event itself rather than the passage of time.

when the occasion arose

Highlights the suitability of a particular opportunity, suggesting a favorable set of circumstances.

when the hour struck

Adds a dramatic or fateful tone, implying a predetermined or significant moment.

as the time approached

Focuses on the process of time moving closer to a particular event or deadline.

at the appointed time

Suggests a prearranged or scheduled moment, emphasizing adherence to a plan.

once the moment was upon us

Emphasizes the immediacy and impact of a particular moment, suggesting a sense of being overwhelmed or confronted.

when the opportunity presented itself

Highlights the unexpected or unplanned nature of a chance occurrence.

at the crucial moment

Emphasizes the significance of a decisive point, suggesting a critical juncture.

when the deadline loomed

Focuses on the pressure and urgency associated with an approaching deadline.

as circumstances dictated

Highlights external forces determining the course of action at a specific time.

FAQs

How can I use "when time came" in a sentence?

Use "when time came" to describe a specific moment in the past when an event happened or a decision was made. For example, "When time came to make a choice, she knew what she had to do."

What's the difference between "when time came" and "when the time comes"?

"When time came" refers to a specific point in the past. "When the time comes" refers to a future event. For example, "When time came, he was ready" (past), vs. "When the time comes, he will be ready" (future).

Are there more formal alternatives to "when time came"?

Yes, you could use phrases like "when the moment arrived" or "at the appointed time" for a more formal tone. These alternatives emphasize the significance or scheduling of the event.

Is it correct to use "when time came" in a business context?

Yes, "when time came" is perfectly acceptable in a business context to describe a past action or decision. For example, "When time came to negotiate the contract, we were well prepared."