Time Linkers helps you communicate about sequence, overlap, endpoints and immediate succession. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can sequence events and relate actions in time with suitable linkers.
- Recognise and build the form: when/while/before/after/until/as soon as/by the time + clause.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Time Linkers for sequence, overlap, endpoints and immediate succession. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
Call me when you arrive.
Use 'when + clause' for the time of the call.
I listened to a podcast while I was cooking.
'While' introduces an action happening at the same time.
Please check the address before you send the package.
'Before' shows that checking must happen first.
when/while/before/after/until/as soon as/by the time + clauseKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- Use 'when + clause' for the time of the call.
- 'While' introduces an action happening at the same time.
- 'Before' shows that checking must happen first.
- 'After' shows that the meeting ended first.
- 'Until' marks the endpoint of the waiting.
Common mistakes
Not:Call me during you arrive.
Use:Call me when you arrive.
Use 'when + clause' for the time of the call.
Not:I listened to a podcast during I was cooking.
Use:I listened to a podcast while I was cooking.
'While' introduces an action happening at the same time.
Not:Please check the address after you send the package.
Use:Please check the address before you send the package.
'Before' shows that checking must happen first.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
We went for coffee ____ the meeting ended.
after
'After' shows that the meeting ended first.
Wait here ____ I return.
until
'Until' marks the endpoint of the waiting.
I'll message you as soon ____ I know the result.
as
The fixed immediate-time linker is 'as soon as'.