Adverb clause of time
An adverb clause of time shows when something happens. It is usually introduced by time
adverbs. Examples are: before, after, as, when, while, until, as soon as, since, no sooner
than, as long as etc. Note that all adverb clauses are subordinate clauses. They cannot stand
on their own and must be attached to an independent clause.
Fill in the blanks with an appropriate adverb.
1. I always take a bath …………………………. I go to bed.
before
after
when
2. Will you wait here ……………………………….. I am ready?
unless
until
un till
3. I was not at home …………………………………. he came to see me.
when
whenever
4. Do not disturb me ……………………………….. I am busy with my work.
until
if
when
5. ………………………………. she finished that project, she started working on
the next.
As soon as
As long as
As far as
6. ……………………………………. I have finished my work, I will accompany
you to the park.
After
Afterwards
7. ………………………………… I think of her, my eyes get misty.
Whenever
Ever
Whatever
8. I will start ……………………………….. I am ready.
when
whenever
9. I will not go ………………………………. I get my money back.
until
unless
PLAY AGAIN !
Answers
I always take a bath before I go to bed.
Will you wait here until I am ready?
I was not at home when he came to see me.
Do not disturb me when I am busy with my work.
As soon as she finished that project, she started working on the next.
After I have finished my work, I will accompany you to the park.
Whenever I think of her, my eyes get misty.
I will start when I am ready. (NOT I will start when I will be ready.
I will not go until I get my money back. (NOT I will not go until I will get my money back.)
Notes
An adverb clause of time can come before or after the main clause. When it comes before the
main clause, we usually separate it with a comma. Commas are not necessary when the
adverb clause goes after the main clause.
Tense
If you are talking about something that is yet to happen in the future, use a present tense in
the adverb clause and a future tense in the main clause.