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It started to rain when he left my house vs It started to rain when he was leaving my house

Both phrases are correct. However, they convey slightly different meanings. The first phrase 'It started to rain when he left my house' implies that the rain began immediately after he left. The second phrase 'It started to rain when he was leaving my house' suggests the rain started while he was in the process of leaving. The choice between the two phrases depends on the specific timing you'd like to emphasize.
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Explained by Miss E.
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: October 03, 2024 • 14180 views

It started to rain when he left my house

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase indicates that the rain began right after he left the house.

Examples:

  • It started to rain when he left my house, so he had to run to his car.
  • I remember it started to rain when he left my house last week.

Alternatives:

  • It started to rain after he left my house.
  • The rain began when he departed from my house.

It started to rain when he was leaving my house

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase suggests that the rain started while he was in the process of leaving the house.

Examples:

  • It started to rain when he was leaving my house, so he had to wait for a while.
  • I recall it started to rain when he was leaving my house yesterday.

Alternatives:

  • The rain began as he was leaving my house.
  • Rain started when he was in the process of leaving my house.

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