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When describes a point in time, and the circumstances under which something occurred.

(adverb)

An example of when is the time at which you go to the store.

When is defined as information such as what time, what point or an alternative.

(conjunction)

An example of when is the point in time that the runners started running.

See when in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adverb

1. at what time?: when did they leave? he asked when he should go
2. on what occasion or under what circumstances?: when do you double the final consonant?
3. at what point?: when shall I stop pouring?
at an earlier time and under different, often less favorable, circumstances: I knew him when

Origin: ME whenne < OE hwænne, akin to Ger wann, when, wenn, if, akin to hwa, who: see what

conjunction

1. at what time or point: they told us when to eat
2. at the time that: when we were at college
at which: a time when people must speak out
as soon as: the runners started when the gun went off
at whatever time; whenever: she smiles when you praise her
although; while on the contrary: to complain when there's no reason to do so
if; considering the fact that: how can he help when they won't let him?

pronoun

what time: until when will you stay?
which time: we came a week ago, since when we've been very busy

noun

the time or moment (of an event): the when and where of his arrest

See when in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adverb

At what time: When will we leave?

conjunction

At the time that: in the spring, when the snow melts.
As soon as: I'll call you when I get there.
Whenever: When the wind blows, all the doors rattle.
During the time at which; while: when I was young, I was sick all the time.
Whereas; although: She stopped short when she ought to have continued.
Considering that; if: How can he get good grades when he won't study?

pron.

What or which time: Since when has this been going on?

noun

The time or date: Have they decided the where and when?

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old English hwenne; see k^wo- in Indo-European roots

Usage Note: In informal style when is often used after forms of be in definitions: A dilemma is when you don't know which way to turn. Although useful, this construction is widely regarded as incorrect or unsuitable for formal discourse. In formal style such definitions should be recast to eliminate is when, either by supplying generic term that may be modified by a restrictive adjective clause (A dilemma is a situation in which you don't know which way to turn) or by making the when-clause adverbial (You are in a dilemma when you don't know which way to turn).

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