When

Definition

'When' is a conjunction used to introduce a subordinate clause, establishing a temporal relationship between two events or actions. This word plays a crucial role in sentence structure by linking main clauses to subordinate clauses, providing clarity about the timing of events and enhancing the coherence of prose. Understanding how 'when' operates within coordination and subordination helps in creating complex sentences that convey precise meanings about time and sequence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'When' can introduce both temporal subordinate clauses and questions, showcasing its versatility in different contexts.
2. 'When' establishes a clear timeline between two actions, which aids readers in understanding the sequence of events in a narrative.
3. 'When' can be used to express conditional scenarios, indicating that one event occurs if another event takes place.
4. 'When' is often paired with other subordinating conjunctions to create more complex sentences that add depth to prose.
5. 'When' helps to clarify the relationship between actions, making it an essential tool for writers aiming for precision and clarity.

Review Questions

• How does the use of 'when' as a subordinating conjunction impact the structure of sentences?
  • 'When' serves as a critical tool in sentence structure by linking independent clauses with subordinate clauses. This relationship allows writers to provide context about timing and sequence, thus enhancing clarity. By using 'when,' authors can create complex sentences that effectively convey the temporal relationships between different actions, making their prose more engaging and coherent.
• In what ways can 'when' be employed to establish conditional scenarios within sentences?
  • 'When' can introduce subordinate clauses that imply conditions, suggesting that one action occurs in response to another. For instance, in the sentence 'When it rains, we will stay indoors,' 'when' indicates that staying indoors is dependent on the occurrence of rain. This usage demonstrates how 'when' can help articulate cause-and-effect relationships within a narrative.
• Evaluate the significance of 'when' in enhancing the narrative flow and coherence in writing.
  • 'When' is significant for improving narrative flow because it allows writers to establish a timeline that connects various events. By employing this conjunction effectively, writers can guide readers through a sequence of actions, ensuring they understand not just what happens, but also when it happens in relation to other events. The ability to create clear temporal connections using 'when' contributes greatly to the overall coherence of prose, leading to more immersive and comprehensible storytelling.

Related terms

Conjunction: 'Conjunctions are words that connect clauses, sentences, or words, helping to form complex and compound sentences.'

Subordinate Clause: 'A subordinate clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence, often beginning with a subordinating conjunction like 'when.'

Temporal Relationship: 'Temporal relationships describe the timing of events or actions, indicating when something happens in relation to another event.'