When Meaning in English
word
/ˈhwɛn/, /ˈhwɪn/, /ˈwɛn/, /ˈwɪn/
HWEN, HWIN, WEN, WIN
/wˈɛn/
WEN
Definition
Used to ask about or refer to a time something happens or happened. It can also introduce a condition or point in time.
Usage & Nuances
Common in both formal and informal contexts. Usually followed by a subject and verb in questions or clauses. Avoid confusing with 'while' which emphasizes duration rather than specific timing. Can start questions, e.g., 'When does it start?'
Spanish: cuandoPortuguese (BR): quandoPortuguese (PT): quandoChinese (Simplified): 什么时候 - 当……时候Chinese (Traditional): 什麼時候 - 當……時候Hindi: जबArabic: متىBengali: কখন - যখনRussian: когдаJapanese: いつVietnamese: khi nào - khiKorean: 언제Turkish: ne zamanUrdu: کبIndonesian: kapan - ketika
Example Sentences
When is your birthday?
basic
Call me when you arrive.
basic
I don’t know when the movie starts.
basic
Let me know when you’re ready to leave.
natural
I don’t know when he will call back.
natural
When in doubt, ask for help.
natural