Another Word for When – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
Looking for another word for “when”? This common word helps us talk about time and ask questions.
Learning its synonyms will help you express time relationships and conditions more precisely.
What is Another Word for When?
When you ask, “What is another word for when?” you want different ways to talk about time, timing, or specific moments. This vocabulary helps you create more varied and interesting sentences.
Meaning of “When”
“When” is used to ask about time, or to refer to a specific time or situation. It helps us understand when something happens or happened.
We use “when” in questions (“When are you coming?”) and to connect ideas in time (“I was cooking when you called”).
Synonyms for “When”
Here are some common synonyms for “when,” depending on the context.
- While – During the time that something else is happening. Emphasizes simultaneous actions.
- Whenever – At any or every time that. Suggests something happens on multiple occasions.
- As – At the same time that. Often used for two actions happening together.
- Once – As soon as, or when something has happened. Implies a condition for something else to occur.
- At the time – During that particular period. A phrase that specifies a moment in the past.
Example Sentences
- While I was cooking dinner, the phone rang.
- You can call me whenever you need help.
- As I entered the room, everyone turned to look.
- Once you finish your work, you can leave.
- I was living in Paris at the time.
Mini Dialogue
Maria: When should I submit the report?
Manager: Once you complete the final section. You can send it whenever you’re ready tomorrow.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t say: “I will call you when I will arrive.”
✅ Do say: “I will call you when I arrive.” After “when” referring to the future, use the present tense, not the future tense.
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence?
“_______ you have finished reading the book, please return it to the library.”
(Answer: Once – It best fits a condition that, when met, leads to a subsequent action.)
Practice Tip
Use one new synonym for “when” in your next message or conversation today.
Final Note
Now you know the answer to “What is another word for when?” You can use while, whenever, or once to talk about time and conditions more specifically. Keep practicing these timely alternatives!