when

beginnerA1

/wɛn/ · when

used to introduce a time clause.

Meanings

conjunctionformal

used to introduce a time clause.

ایک وقتی جملہ متعارف کرنے کے لیے استعمال ہوتا ہے۔

جب

jab

Synonyms

at the time thatas soon aswheneverجبجب تکاس وقت

Antonyms

neveralwaysکبھی نہیںہمیشہ

Common Collocations

  • when the time comes
  • when in doubt
  • when I was young

Example Sentences

When it rains, I love to stay indoors.

جب بارش ہوتی ہے تو مجھے گھر میں رہنا پسند ہے۔

jab barish hoti hai to mujhe ghar mein rehna pasand hai.

Tell me when you are ready.

مجھے بتاؤ جب تم تیار ہو۔

mujhe batao jab tum tayaar ho.

I will call you when I arrive.

میں تمہیں فون کروں گا جب میں آؤں گا۔

main tumhein phone karoon ga jab main aaon ga.

Easily Confused With

then:Then refers to a specific time in the future or after an event, while when refers to a query about a time.

Word Family

whenever
conjunctionجب بھی
when's
contractionجب کا

See Also

💡 Memory Tip

Think of 'when' as the question about time!

Picture a clock indicating different times throughout the day.

📖 Etymology

Origin: Old English "hwænne" — at what time

First known use: before 12th century

The word 'when' has its roots in Old English 'hwænne', which is a question word used to inquire about time. Throughout the centuries, it has retained its function, becoming an essential part of English interrogative clauses.