Lesson 7: Time Clauses

Understanding Time Clauses in English: A Comprehensive Explanation

Time clauses are an essential part of English grammar, used to indicate when an action or event takes place. These clauses are connected to the main sentence by subordinating conjunctions such as when, after, before, while, until, as soon as, and more. Time clauses provide important context about the timing of the action in the main clause.

What Is a Time Clause?

A time clause is a dependent clause that specifies the time when the action in the main clause occurs. Time clauses always use a subordinating conjunction and are generally followed by a subject and a verb. They give additional details about when or how long something happens.

Structure:

• Time clause + main clause (subject + verb)

Key Subordinating Conjunctions Used in Time Clauses

1. When – indicates the exact time or event an action happens.
2. After – expresses that one action happens following another.
3. Before – shows that one action happens prior to another.
4. While – refers to two actions happening at the same time.
5. Until – shows the action continues up to a specific point in time.
6. As soon as – indicates an action will happen immediately after another.

How to Form Time Clauses

In time clauses, the verb tense used can differ from the main clause, depending on the context:

• If the time clause refers to a future event, the simple present tense is used, even though the main clause might use the future tense.
• For past events, past tenses are used in both the main clause and the time clause.

Example Sentences with Explanations

1. I will call you when I arrive at the airport.
   Explanation: In this sentence, "when I arrive at the airport" is the time clause, showing the time the action of calling will take place. The main clause, "I will call you", uses the future tense, while the time clause uses the present simple because it refers to a future event.

2. She went to bed after she finished her homework.
   Explanation: Here, "after she finished her homework" is the time clause, indicating the action of going to bed happened after finishing the homework. The past simple tense is used in both clauses because both actions happened in the past.

Important Notes about Time Clauses

• The time clause can appear before or after the main clause in a sentence.
  • Example 1: Before I go to bed, I read a book.
  • Example 2: I read a book before I go to bed.
• When the time clause is at the beginning of the sentence, it is common to separate it from the main clause with a comma.
  • Example: When I was young, I lived in London.

Summary

Time clauses help to give more detailed information about when an action happens in relation to another action. They are connected to the main clause with subordinating conjunctions such as when, after, before, while, until, and as soon as. By understanding how to use time clauses correctly, you can add more clarity and depth to your sentences, making your communication more precise.