Time conjunctions show the relationship between two events in time. They tell us when something happens.
When (At or During That Time)
"When" is the most general time conjunction. It means "at that time" or "during that time."
- Call me when you arrive.
- When I was young, I lived in London.
- I was sleeping when the phone rang.
While (During That Time)
"While" means "during the time that." It often connects two actions happening at the same time.
- She listened to music while she worked.
- While I was cooking, the kids were playing.
- He fell asleep while watching TV.
When vs. While: "While" emphasizes the duration of an action. "When" can refer to a specific point in time.
- I arrived when the movie started. (specific point)
- I fell asleep while the movie was playing. (duration)
Before (Earlier Than)
"Before" shows that one event happened earlier than another.
- Before you leave, turn off the lights.
- I always drink coffee before I go to work.
- She had finished her homework before dinner.
After (Later Than)
"After" shows that one event happened later than another.
- After the movie ended, we went for a walk.
- I will call you after I arrive.
- She went to bed after finishing her work.
As soon as (Immediately After)
"As soon as" means "immediately after" or "at the very moment."
- As soon as I get home, I will call you.
- She left as soon as the meeting ended.
- As soon as he saw me, he smiled.
Tense Usage with Time Conjunctions
With future time, use the present tense after the time conjunction (not "will").
- I will call you when I arrive. (not "when I will arrive")
- After she finishes work, she will go home.
- As soon as he comes, we will start.
Comparison Table
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example | | ----------- | ----------------- | --------------------------------------- | | when | at that time | Call me when you're ready. | | while | during that time | Read while you wait. | | before | earlier than | Wash your hands before you eat. | | after | later than | Let's go after it stops raining. | | as soon as | immediately after | I'll tell him as soon as I see him. |