when we can

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when we can" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a time or opportunity when something is possible or feasible. Example: "Let's schedule the meeting for next week when we can all be available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Except, of course, when "we" can do better.

The New York Times - Arts

We'll add them when we can.

The Economist

"And to accommodate them when we can".

The New York Times

That's when we can make cuts".

The Guardian - Opinion

"When we can explain it, we will".

The New York Times

We help each other when we can.

The Guardian - Sport

When we can do it right".

The New York Times - Magazine

We seize it — we invent it — when we can.

The New York Times - Arts

When we can do that, it usually works pretty good".

The New York Times - Sports

We've done things when we can," Armfield said.

The Guardian - Sport

"I prefer to do it when we can.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when we can" to clearly indicate that an action is contingent on having the ability or opportunity to perform it. This adds clarity to your writing and avoids misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid using "when we can" without specifying what conditions need to be met. Ensure the reader understands what limitations or opportunities influence the action being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when we can" functions primarily as an adverbial clause of time, modifying a verb by indicating the timing or condition under which an action will occur. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Reference

1%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when we can" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to express conditionality or timing dependent on capability. Ludwig AI analysis demonstrates its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it's suitable for both formal and informal settings, ensure context is provided to clarify the conditions that need to be met. Consider alternatives like "as soon as we are able" or "when circumstances allow" to add nuance to your writing. Avoid overusing the phrase without providing sufficient detail about the influencing factors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as soon as we're able

Emphasizes the immediacy or promptness of action once capability is achieved.

when it's feasible for us

Highlights the practicality and feasibility of the action being considered.

when we're in a position to

Focuses on having the necessary resources or circumstances to act.

at our earliest convenience

Implies acting as soon as it is convenient for the involved party.

when circumstances allow

Highlights the dependence on external conditions for enabling action.

if and when possible

Adds a degree of uncertainty regarding the possibility of the action.

as opportunity permits

Focuses on taking advantage of opportune moments for action.

depending on availability

Stresses that the action is contingent on having the necessary resources or time.

subject to our capabilities

Highlights that the action depends on the specific skills or resources that are present.

when the time is right

Suggests waiting for the most appropriate or advantageous moment to act.

FAQs

How can I use "when we can" in a sentence?

Use "when we can" to indicate that an action will be performed if and when the necessary conditions or resources are available. For example, "We will address the issue "when we can" allocate sufficient resources to it."

What are some alternatives to "when we can"?

Some alternatives include "as soon as we are able", "when it is possible", or "when circumstances allow", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "when we can"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "when we can" functions as an adverbial clause of time, indicating the timing of an action in relation to our ability to perform it.

What is the difference between "when we can" and "if we can"?

"When we can" implies a degree of certainty that the action will eventually occur, contingent on certain conditions. "If we can", on the other hand, suggests a greater level of uncertainty about whether the action will ever be possible.