Adverb Clauses of Time

Adverb clauses of time show when something happens.

Common time words include when, while, before, after, as soon as, until, and by the time.

Future Time Clauses

Use a present tense after time words when the meaning is future.

Time clause	Main clause
When I arrive,	I will call you.
As soon as she finishes,	we can leave.
Before you go,	sign this form.

Do not use will in the time clause.

Correct: I will call when I arrive.

Incorrect: I will call when I will arrive.

While, Until, And By The Time

Word	Use	Example
while	two actions at the same time	I listened while she explained.
until	continuing up to a time	Wait here until I come back.
by the time	not later than a time	By the time we arrived, the store had closed.

Before And After

Use before and after to show order.

Wash your hands before you eat.

I felt better after I had some water.

Common Mistakes

Avoid	Use
Call me when you will arrive.	Call me when you arrive.
Wait until I will return.	Wait until I return.
By the time we arrived, the movie started already.	By the time we arrived, the movie had already started.

Practice

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I will call you when I ___ home.

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Summary

Use adverb clauses of time to connect events. In future time clauses after when, before, after, as soon as, and until, use a present tense, not will. Use while for simultaneous actions and by the time for a deadline or completed earlier event.