Overview of Temporal Clauses in English (B1-B2)

Temporal clauses, also known as time clauses, are subordinate clauses that provide information about when the action in the main clause occurs. These clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns that indicate time.

Here are some examples of temporal clauses along with their subordinating conjunctions:

1. When: Indicates a specific point in time.

   • I will call you when I arrive.
   • She likes to read books when she's traveling.

2. While: Indicates a period of time during which the action in the main clause occurs.

   • He listens to music while he works.
   • I studied for my exam while my roommate watched TV.

3. Before: Indicates that the action in the temporal clause occurs prior to the action in the main clause.

   • Please finish your homework before you go out.
   • They had dinner before they went to the movie.

4. After: Indicates that the action in the temporal clause occurs subsequent to the action in the main clause.

   • I will clean the house after I finish my work.
   • They went for a walk after they had lunch.

5. Since: Indicates a starting point in time for an action that continues into the present.

   • I have known him since we were children.
   • She has been learning Spanish since last year.

6. Until/ Till: Indicates the time up to which an action continues.

   • I will wait here until you come back.
   • She didn't leave until the rain stopped.

7. As soon as: Indicates that an action occurs immediately after another action.

   • I will let you know as soon as I hear from him.
   • He left the party as soon as he felt tired.

8. Whenever: Indicates any time when the action in the main clause occurs.

   • She smiles whenever she sees her favorite movie.
   • He listens to music whenever he feels stressed.