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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
When you have a moment
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "when you have a moment" is a correct and usable phrase in written English
You can use it when you need to politely ask someone to do something or when you would like to request someone's time. For example, "Can you please review this document when you have a moment?"
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Lifestyle
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
18 human-written examples
"You can't expect people to applaud when you have a moment like this," he said.
News & Media
In performance, muscle memory will carry you along when something distracts you, or when you have a moment of doubt.
News & Media
When you have a moment, instead of checking your email, look at the slip, and work on an item.
News & Media
Thornton: When you have a moment … Clegg: Do you want to be in my gang, my gang, my gang?
News & Media
God bless you, Chris, and give me a call when you have a moment, 'cause I have a funny story to tell you.
Academia
Why don't you give me a call when you have a moment?" It's been more than a month since I wrote to him.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
42 human-written examples
"When you have a great moment, you never forget those moments," Soriano said.
News & Media
Of course, if you're always hanging out with friends when you have a free moment, you may actually feel a bit overwhelmed and like you have no time to decompress.
Wiki
"As a photographer, you know when you have a unique moment.
News & Media
"I say it's always great when you have a spectacular moment that suddenly gives you an amazing surge," said Jose Mallea, Mr. Gingrich's Florida campaign manager.
News & Media
It's an accessible, fun app for creating electronic music, which makes it easy to lash together beats and melodies when you have a spare moment, then record and share them with others.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
In professional settings, it's appropriate to follow up if you don't receive a response within a reasonable timeframe. This shows you value their time while also ensuring your request is addressed.
⚠ Common error
Avoid using "when you have a moment" if you require immediate action. This phrase implies flexibility, so choose a more direct approach like "Please address this urgently" if necessary.
Linguistic Context
The phrase "when you have a moment" functions as an adverbial clause of time. It modifies the main clause by specifying the timing or condition under which the action in the main clause should be performed. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across various examples.
Expression frequency: Common
✓ Frequent in
News & Media
60%
Academia
20%
Wiki
10%
⚠ Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Science
3%
Lifestyle
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "when you have a moment" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to politely request someone's time or attention. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as an adverbial clause of time, softening requests and showing consideration. While versatile, it's best suited for situations where immediate action isn't necessary. Consider alternatives like "when you get a chance" or "at your convenience" to fine-tune your message. Remember to avoid assuming immediate action and always follow up if needed. The sources analyzed range from news media to academic institutions and lifestyle blogs, highlighting its broad applicability.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
when you get a chance
This alternative focuses on the availability of an opportunity, similar to having a moment.
when you find some time
Emphasizes the act of finding or making time, which is a subtle difference from simply having a moment.
at your convenience
This alternative shifts the focus to the other person's convenience, offering a more formal tone.
when you're free
This alternative is more direct and informal, asking about general availability.
as soon as you can
This conveys a sense of urgency, unlike the original phrase which is more relaxed.
if you have time
A more conditional way of asking, emphasizing the uncertainty of the time being available.
FAQs
How can I use "when you have a moment" in a sentence?
Use "when you have a moment" to politely request someone to do something without implying urgency. For example, "Please review this document "when you have a moment"".
What can I say instead of "when you have a moment"?
You can use alternatives like "when you get a chance", "at your convenience", or "when you're free" depending on the context.
Is it appropriate to use "when you have a moment" in formal communication?
Yes, ""when you have a moment"" is generally appropriate in formal communication as it's a polite way to request something without being demanding. However, consider the level of formality required and choose alternatives if needed.
What's the difference between "when you have a moment" and "as soon as possible"?
"When you have a moment" implies flexibility and no strict deadline, while "as soon as possible" indicates a degree of urgency. Choose the phrase that best reflects the actual timeframe.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested