when we get back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when we get back" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a future time when someone returns to a place or situation. Example: "Let's discuss the project further when we get back from the conference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When we get back, dog will be in place.

The New York Times

I will check in with him when we get back".

The Guardian - Sport

We'll see how it feels when we get back home".

The New York Times - Sports

"That'll come when we get back to California," he said.

The New Yorker

We'll be sitting down with the selectors when we get back to England".

Independent

When we get back to Granana's, her cottage is shuttered and dark.

The New Yorker

SNACKS, CONTINUED When we get back from the walk, we have lunch.

The New York Times

"I think I need to see how he is when we get back.

Independent

We're going to even find some gas when we get back home".

The New York Times - Sports

We are calling her when we get back to your place".

The New York Times

"When we get back down the mountain, we can feel sad," she said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "when we get back", ensure the context clearly indicates the place or situation to which you are returning. Ambiguity can arise if the destination is not explicitly stated or easily inferred.

Common error

Avoid using "when we get back" without a clear antecedent. For example, instead of saying "When we get back, we'll discuss it", specify "When we get back to the office, we'll discuss it" to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when we get back" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause of a sentence. It specifies the timing of an event or action, indicating that it will occur after the subject returns to a particular place or situation. Ludwig confirms the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when we get back" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a future action upon returning to a place or situation. As Ludwig confirms, it's suitable for diverse contexts, predominantly appearing in News & Media. To maintain clarity, ensure the reference point for the return is explicit. Alternatives like "upon our return" provide more formal options. Remembering these nuances will enhance your writing precision. With usage in various sources from the BBC to The New York Times it is an effective way to state the action after a return from a location.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

after we return

Straightforward alternative, focusing on the action of returning.

once we're back

More casual alternative, implying a state of being back.

when we've returned

Focuses on the completion of the return journey.

upon our return

More formal alternative, emphasizing the act of returning.

on our return

Similar to "upon our return" but slightly less formal.

when we arrive back

Emphasizes the act of arriving at the destination.

back from our trip

Short and specific, implies a journey has been taken.

after the trip

Simplest and most general alternative.

returning

Condenses the idea into a single verb form, suitable for some contexts.

at the end of our journey

More descriptive and emphasizes the completion of a journey.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "when we get back"?

You can use alternatives like "upon our return", "after we return", or "once we're back" depending on the context.

Is "when we get back" formal or informal?

"When we get back" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "upon our return" may be preferred in highly formal writing.

How can I make sure the meaning of "when we get back" is clear?

To ensure clarity, specify the location or situation you are returning to. For example, instead of "When we get back, we'll start working on it", say "When we get back to the office, we'll start working on it".

Can "when we get back" be used to refer to resuming an activity?

Yes, "when we get back" can refer to resuming an activity or discussion. For example, "When we get back to the project, we'll need to address the budget issues".