When can be used as a conjunction and adverb
When is a versatile word that can be used as both a conjunction and an adverb. As a conjunction, it is used to introduce a subordinate clause that indicates the time when the action in the main clause occurred. As an adverb, when indicates the time at which an action took place, or sometimes the duration or frequency of an action. Let's explore some examples of how to use when in both of these roles.
When as a conjunction
When used as a conjunction, when often appears at the start of a subordinate clause that explains the time frame in which an action took place. For example, consider the sentence "I was at the store when the phone rang." In this sentence, the main clause is "I was at the store," and the subordinate clause introduced by when is "when the phone rang." The use of when here tells us that the action of the main clause (being at the store) occurred at the same time as the action in the subordinate clause (the phone ringing).
Here are a few more examples of when used as a conjunction:
I always feel sleepy when I watch TV late at night.
The dog barks loudly when someone comes to the door.
She always sings in the shower when nobody else is home.
When as an adverb
When used as an adverb, when can refer to a specific point in time when something occurred. For example, consider the sentence "He arrived at the party when it was already dark outside." In this sentence, the use of when suggests that there was a specific moment in time (when it was already dark outside) at which the action in the main clause (he arrived at the party) occurred.
When can also be used to indicate the duration or frequency of an action. For example, consider the sentence "I always feel tired when I work for long hours." Here, when is used to convey the duration of the action (working for long hours).
Here are a few more examples of when used as an adverb:
I get really hungry when I don't eat breakfast in the morning.
Mary always gets a headache when she spends too much time on the computer.
He exercises every day when he comes home from work.
In conclusion
When is a flexible word that can be used as both a conjunction and an adverb to indicate time. Whether you are describing a specific point in time or the duration of an action, using when can help your writing to be more precise and clear. By understanding the different ways in which when can be used, you can enhance your ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.