"When it is ready" vs "once it is ready"

Question

"When it is ready" vs "once it is ready"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Once it is ready' implies a sense of certainty or inevitability, while 'When it is ready' is more neutral and simply indicates a point in time. The choice between the two depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate the specific point in time at which something will be ready, without implying inevitability or certainty.

Examples:

Please inform me when the report is ready.
When the food is ready, we can eat.
Let me know when the package is ready for pickup.
When the movie is ready, we can watch it.
I will check my email when the response is ready.

Alternatives:

once it is ready
as soon as it is ready
immediately after it is ready
the moment it is ready
right after it is ready

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or be done at the moment it becomes ready, with a sense of inevitability or certainty.

Examples:

I will start cooking once the oven is preheated.
Once the document is signed, we can proceed with the next steps.
Once the cake is baked, we can decorate it.
Once the train arrives, we can board.
I will call you once I finish my work.

Alternatives:

as soon as it is ready
immediately after it is ready
the moment it is ready
right after it is ready
when it is ready

Answer 1

When it is ready

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It simply indicates a point in time when something will be ready.

Answer 2

once it is ready

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It implies a sense of certainty or inevitability.

"When it is ready" vs "once it is ready"

When it is ready

once it is ready

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