Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
when working
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "when working" is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used to indicate a specific time or situation when an action is taking place. For example: - "Please do not disturb me when I am working on a project." - "She is always at her best when working under pressure." - "When working on a team, communication is key to success." - "The machine makes a loud noise when working, so it's best to wear earplugs."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Alternative expressions(20)
while employed
during work hours
on the job
in the course of employment
well working
after working
on my service
while on assignment
while on top
on company time
while at work
while on work
while on service
while on test
while on assignments
while on bond
during active service
while on guard
while on duty
while on volunteer
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
59 human-written examples
Britain only succeeds when working people succeed.
News & Media
Coulson is cool even when working out.
News & Media
Britain succeeds when working people succeed.
News & Media
when working from home," he said.
News & Media
When working, work.
Science & Research
"Mistakes happen when working in a vacuum".
Science & Research
When working with space systems the keyword is resources.
Science
Some technical problems when working with BaF2 scintillators were solved.
Temperament is an important factor when working with horses.
It is also true when working with FPGA-based devices.
This is a common problem when working on archaeological material.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When providing instructions, use "when working" to clearly indicate the specific time or circumstance to which the instruction applies. For example: "When working with power tools, always wear safety goggles."
Common error
Avoid using "when working" in situations where the timing is unclear or ongoing. Instead of "Productivity increases when working", specify the context: "Productivity increases when working in a quiet environment."
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "when working" functions as an adverbial clause of time, indicating the specific circumstances or period during which an action or state occurs. Ludwig confirms its usability and wide application across varied contexts.
Frequent in
Wiki
33%
Science
32%
News & Media
23%
Less common in
Formal & Business
12%
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "when working" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase, functioning as an adverbial clause of time to provide context for an action or event. With a neutral register, this phrase is suitable across diverse settings such as technical manuals, news articles and general guides. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is frequently employed and understood in various contexts. To enhance clarity, provide specific time frames and conditions to avoid vagueness. Common alternatives include "while employed" or "during work hours". Overall, "when working" effectively sets a temporal context, making it a valuable tool for precise and clear communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
whilst at work
Uses "whilst" as a synonym for "when", adding a slightly more formal tone.
while employed
Replaces "working" with "employed", focusing on the state of being employed during the action.
on the job
A more informal substitute, indicating something happening while at work.
during work hours
Specifies that the action occurs within the defined work period.
as you operate
Emphasizes the act of operating or performing tasks.
during activity
Replaces 'working' with the more generic 'activity', suitable when the specific nature of the work is less important.
if you are on duty
Highlights the condition of being on duty when the action happens.
as you function
Highlights the process of functioning or operating in a work context.
in the course of employment
Formal and legalistic alternative, focusing on actions taken within the scope of one's job.
in operational mode
Implies a state of active operation, particularly relevant in technical or mechanical contexts.
FAQs
How can I use "when working" in a sentence?
Use "when working" to describe a specific condition or action that occurs during work. For example: "When working overtime, remember to take breaks."
What are some alternatives to "when working"?
Alternatives include "while employed", "during work hours", or "on the job", depending on the context.
Is it correct to say "while working" instead of "when working"?
Yes, "while working" is often interchangeable with "when working" and can be used to describe actions happening simultaneously with work. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.
What is the difference between "when working" and "if working"?
"When working" indicates a specific time or circumstance, while "if working" introduces a hypothetical condition. For example, "When working late, I order takeout" describes a routine, but "If working late, I might order takeout" suggests a possibility.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested