In this English lesson you will learn how we can use adverb clauses of time in complex English sentences.
What is an adverb clause of time?
Basically, adverb or adverbial clauses are a group of words that function as an adverb.
They give information about the main clause in the sentence, and the also use subordinating conjunctions like after, as, as soon as, before, hardly…when, no sooner, since, when, etc.
They answer the question WHEN?
Take a look at this sentence:
My son has to wash his hands before he has dinner.
The adverb clause is highlighted in bold. It answers the question ‘when does he have to wash his hands?’
The answer: before he eats his tea.
Now, look at some more example sentences. The adverbial clauses of time are highlighted.
- I passed my driving test when I turned 18.
- After visiting Auckland, I know I wanted to live in New Zealand.
- She hasn’t spoken to Peter since last Christmas.
- Ted will call Phillip as soon as he finishes his lunch.
- No sooner had I got up than the phone started to ring.
- His heart starts to beat fast whenever he hears her name.
All of the adverb clauses of time above answer the question ‘when?’
When did I know I wanted to live in New Zealand? After my visit there.
When did she last speak to Pete? Last Christmas.
When will Ted call Phillip? After lunch.
When did I pass my driving test? When I was 18.
When does his heart beat faster than normal? When he hears her name.
When did the phone start to ring? When I got up.
There are plenty more English lessons for you to look at. Here’s an example.
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