Top 46 Slang For When – Meaning & Usage

Sometimes, finding the right words to express a specific moment or feeling can be a challenge. That’s where we come in. At Fluentslang, we’ve scoured the depths of the English language to bring you a list of slang phrases for when you just can’t find the right words. Whether you’re feeling hangry, flabbergasted, or even a bit mushy-gushy, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to upgrade your vocabulary and add a dash of flair to your everyday conversations!

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1. then

This term is used to refer to a specific point in time or a particular moment in the past. It can also be used to indicate a sequence of events.

  • For example, “Back then, we used to play outside all day.”
  • In a conversation about a past event, someone might say, “And then he showed up out of nowhere.”
  • A person might use this term to emphasize a specific time frame, such as, “I want it done by then.”

2. again

This word is used to indicate repetition or a return to a previous state or action. It can also be used to express enthusiasm or agreement.

  • For instance, “Let’s do it again!”
  • In a conversation about a repeated occurrence, someone might say, “It happened again.”
  • A person might use this term to show excitement, such as, “I can’t wait to see you again!”

3. all at once

This phrase is used to describe multiple things happening or being done at the same time or in a coordinated manner.

  • For example, “They all started singing all at once.”
  • In a discussion about a chaotic situation, someone might say, “Everything happened all at once.”
  • A person might use this phrase to describe a sudden burst of activity, such as, “Ideas started flowing all at once.”

4. anon

This term is derived from the phrase “anon,” which means “in a short time” or “soon.” It is used to indicate that something will happen or be done in the near future.

  • For instance, “I’ll see you anon.”
  • In a conversation about upcoming plans, someone might say, “We’ll meet anon.”
  • A person might use this term to express a sense of urgency, such as, “I need it done anon.”

5. at that instant

This phrase is used to describe an action or event happening immediately or without delay.

  • For example, “She made her decision at that instant.”
  • In a discussion about a sudden reaction, someone might say, “I knew it at that instant.”
  • A person might use this phrase to emphasize a specific moment, such as, “I realized it at that instant.”

6. at that point

This phrase is used to refer to a specific moment or time in the past or future.

  • For example, “At that point, I realized I had made a mistake.”
  • In a story, a character might say, “At that point, everything changed.”
  • Someone might ask, “What happened at that point in the movie?”

7. before long

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or be done in a short amount of time.

  • For instance, “I’ll be home before long.”
  • A friend might say, “Don’t worry, you’ll find a job before long.”
  • Someone might comment, “Before long, the sun will set.”

8. formerly

This word is used to describe something that was true or existed in the past but is no longer the case.

  • For example, “She was formerly a professional dancer.”
  • In a discussion about a company, someone might say, “The CEO was formerly a software engineer.”
  • A person might mention, “I used to live in New York City, formerly known as New Amsterdam.”

9. later

This word is used to refer to a time or event that occurs after the current moment or another specified time.

  • For instance, “I’ll see you later.”
  • Someone might say, “I’ll finish my work later.”
  • A person might ask, “Can we talk about this later?”

10. next

This word is used to refer to the time or event that comes immediately after the current moment or another specified time.

  • For example, “What’s next on the agenda?”
  • In a conversation about plans, someone might say, “Let’s meet up next week.”
  • A person might comment, “Next, we’ll discuss the budget.”

11. on that occasion

This phrase is used to refer to a specific time or event in the past.

  • For example, “I remember on that occasion when we all went camping together.”
  • A person might say, “On that occasion, we celebrated my grandmother’s 90th birthday.”
  • Another might reminisce, “I met my favorite author on that occasion at a book signing.”

12. soon after

This phrase is used to describe an event or action that occurs shortly after another event or action.

  • For instance, “I finished my homework and soon after, I went to bed.”
  • A person might say, “She left the party and soon after, she received a phone call.”
  • Another might say, “I saw him at the store and soon after, he moved away.”

13. suddenly

This word is used to describe an event or action that happens quickly and without warning.

  • For example, “He appeared suddenly and scared me.”
  • A person might say, “Suddenly, the power went out and we were left in the dark.”
  • Another might say, “She suddenly changed her mind and decided not to go.”

14. thereupon

This word is used to describe an action or event that happens immediately after or as a result of a previous action or event.

  • For instance, “He won the race and thereupon received a trophy.”
  • A person might say, “She finished her speech and thereupon received a standing ovation.”
  • Another might say, “He proposed and thereupon she said yes.”

15. when

This word is used to refer to a specific time or event in the past.

  • For example, “When I was younger, I used to love playing soccer.”
  • A person might say, “I remember when we first met.”
  • Another might say, “When I was in college, I studied abroad.”

16. years ago

This phrase is used to refer to a time that is a significant number of years in the past. It is often used to reminisce about past events or to emphasize the distance in time.

  • For example, someone might say, “I visited Paris years ago and it was amazing.”
  • In a conversation about fashion trends, a person might say, “That style was popular years ago.”
  • A person might use this phrase to express surprise, saying, “I can’t believe that happened years ago!”

17. before

This word is used to indicate that something happened or existed earlier or in a previous period of time. It is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts.

  • For instance, someone might say, “I had met her before we started working together.”
  • In a conversation about historical events, a person might say, “That happened before my time.”
  • A person might use this word to express regret, saying, “I wish I had known that before!”

18. at another time

This phrase is used to refer to a time that is different from the current moment. It implies that the event or action being discussed did not happen now, but may happen in the future or has happened in the past.

  • For example, someone might say, “We can discuss that at another time.”
  • In a conversation about scheduling, a person might say, “I’m not available right now, but we can meet at another time.”
  • A person might use this phrase to postpone a discussion, saying, “Let’s talk about it at another time.”

19. at that time

This phrase is used to refer to a specific period in the past when a particular event or situation occurred. It is often used to provide context or to emphasize the timing of an event.

  • For instance, someone might say, “At that time, I was living in New York.”
  • In a conversation about historical figures, a person might say, “She was a prominent leader at that time.”
  • A person might use this phrase to explain a decision, saying, “I made the best choice I could at that time.”

20. at that moment

This phrase is used to refer to a specific instant or point in time. It is often used to describe a particular moment of significance or to highlight a specific event or action.

  • For example, someone might say, “At that moment, I knew I had made a mistake.”
  • In a conversation about a memorable experience, a person might say, “At that moment, everything changed.”
  • A person might use this phrase to emphasize a decision or realization, saying, “I knew at that moment that I had to take action.”

21. Whenever

This word is used to refer to any time or at any time. It is often used to indicate flexibility or availability.

  • For example, “You can call me whenever you need help.”
  • A person might say, “I’m free whenever you want to hang out.”
  • In a conversation about plans, someone might suggest, “Let’s meet up whenever works best for you.”

22. As soon as

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen immediately after a certain event or condition is met.

  • For instance, “I’ll start cooking dinner as soon as I finish work.”
  • A person might say, “I’ll pay you back as soon as I get my paycheck.”
  • In a discussion about priorities, someone might say, “I’ll clean my room as soon as I finish my homework.”

23. Once

This word is used to indicate a specific point in time or condition that triggers a particular action or event.

  • For example, “Once I graduate, I’m going to travel the world.”
  • A person might say, “I’ll be happy once I find a job I love.”
  • In a conversation about past experiences, someone might say, “Once, I went skydiving and it was exhilarating.”

24. If

This word is used to introduce a condition or possibility that must be met for a certain action or event to occur.

  • For instance, “If it rains, we’ll have to cancel the picnic.”
  • A person might say, “I’ll go to the party if I finish my work in time.”
  • In a discussion about hypothetical situations, someone might say, “If I won the lottery, I would travel the world.”

25. In the event of

This phrase is used to introduce a hypothetical situation or condition that may occur and the action or response that would be taken in that situation.

  • For example, “In the event of a fire, follow the emergency evacuation procedures.”
  • A person might say, “In the event of a power outage, use a flashlight for lighting.”
  • In a conversation about safety, someone might say, “In the event of an earthquake, take cover under a sturdy table.”

26. Whenever the mood strikes

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen whenever one feels like it or whenever the desire arises.

  • For example, “I don’t have a set schedule for painting. I just do it whenever the mood strikes.”
  • A person might say, “I love going on road trips. I’ll just pack up and leave whenever the mood strikes.”
  • Someone might comment, “I don’t have a specific time for working out. I just exercise whenever the mood strikes.”

27. When the time is right

This phrase is used to express the idea that something will happen or be done at the most suitable or appropriate time.

  • For instance, “I’ll propose to her when the time is right.”
  • A person might say, “I want to start my own business, but I’ll do it when the time is right.”
  • Someone might comment, “I’ll have a serious conversation with my boss about a raise when the time is right.”

28. When pigs fly

This phrase is used to express extreme skepticism or doubt about the possibility of something ever occurring.

  • For example, “Sure, I’ll lend you money when pigs fly.”
  • A person might say, “I’ll clean my room when pigs fly.”
  • Someone might comment, “He’ll apologize to me when pigs fly.”

29. When hell freezes over

This phrase is used to express extreme skepticism or doubt about the possibility of something ever occurring, similar to “when pigs fly.”

  • For instance, “I’ll forgive him when hell freezes over.”
  • A person might say, “I’ll quit my job when hell freezes over.”
  • Someone might comment, “They’ll agree on politics when hell freezes over.”

30. When push comes to shove

This phrase is used to describe a situation where a decision or action must be taken when circumstances become difficult or critical.

  • For example, “She always stays calm, but when push comes to shove, she knows how to take charge.”
  • A person might say, “I’ll do whatever it takes when push comes to shove.”
  • Someone might comment, “Most people are willing to help when push comes to shove.”

31. When all is said and done

This phrase is used to summarize or conclude a situation or event. It implies that after everything has been discussed or considered, a final decision or outcome has been reached.

  • For example, “When all is said and done, we realized that we had made the right choice.”
  • In a discussion about a project, someone might say, “It was a challenging process, but when all is said and done, we delivered a successful outcome.”
  • Another usage could be, “When all is said and done, we must remember to appreciate the journey, not just the destination.”

32. When the going gets tough

This phrase is used to describe a situation where things become challenging or demanding.

  • For instance, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going” means that when faced with adversity, strong and determined individuals take action instead of giving up.
  • In a motivational context, someone might say, “Remember, when the going gets tough, it’s an opportunity to grow and learn.”
  • Another usage could be, “When the going gets tough, it’s important to stay focused on your goals and push through the obstacles.”

33. When life gives you lemons

This phrase encourages individuals to make the best out of a difficult or challenging situation.

  • For example, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade” implies that when faced with sour or unfavorable circumstances, one should find a way to turn them into something positive or beneficial.
  • In a motivational context, someone might say, “Instead of dwelling on setbacks, remember to make lemonade out of life’s lemons.”
  • Another usage could be, “When life gives you lemons, use them as an opportunity to grow and develop resilience.”

34. When one door closes, another opens

This phrase suggests that when something ends or doesn’t work out, there will always be new opportunities or possibilities that arise.

  • For instance, “When one door closes, another opens” means that when one opportunity or path closes, another one presents itself.
  • In a discussion about career changes, someone might say, “It’s important to remember that when one door closes, another opens, and it might lead to even better opportunities.”
  • Another usage could be, “When one door closes, it’s a chance to reassess and explore new paths that may lead to unexpected success.”

35. When the cat’s away, the mice will play

This phrase implies that when someone in authority or supervision is not present, others may take advantage of the situation to do things they wouldn’t normally do.

  • For example, “When the cat’s away, the mice will play” suggests that people may indulge in activities or behaviors they wouldn’t engage in if someone was watching.
  • In a humorous context, someone might say, “Let’s have a party tonight! When the cat’s away, the mice will play.”
  • Another usage could be, “When the boss is on vacation, some employees may take advantage of the relaxed atmosphere. It’s a classic example of when the cat’s away, the mice will play.”

36. When the whistle blows

– For example, “When the whistle blows, the game will begin.”

  • In a work setting, someone might say, “We’ll start the meeting when the whistle blows.”
  • A coach might say, “When the whistle blows, give it your all on the field.”

37. When the needle drops

– For instance, “When the needle drops, the party gets started.”

  • A music enthusiast might say, “I love that feeling when the needle drops and the music fills the room.”
  • When discussing a DJ’s set, someone might comment, “The crowd goes wild when the needle drops on their favorite track.”

38. While

– For example, “While I was studying, my roommate was watching TV.”

  • When discussing multitasking, someone might say, “I can listen to music while I work.”
  • A parent might say, “While the kids play, I’ll prepare dinner.”

39. After

– For instance, “After the party, we went out for pizza.”

  • When discussing a movie, someone might say, “After the opening scene, the plot really starts to unfold.”
  • A teacher might explain, “After you finish this assignment, we’ll move on to the next lesson.”

40. Now that

– For example, “Now that I have a job, I can afford to travel.”

  • When discussing a recent accomplishment, someone might say, “Now that I’ve graduated, I can pursue my dream career.”
  • A person reflecting on a decision might say, “Now that I think about it, I should have chosen a different path.”

41. Since

This word is used to indicate that something has been true or happening from a particular point in time until now.

  • For example, “I’ve been working here since 2010.”
  • A person might say, “I haven’t seen her since last week.”
  • In a conversation about hobbies, someone might mention, “I’ve loved playing the piano since I was a child.”

42. Till

This word is used to indicate the duration of time up to a specific point.

  • For instance, “I’ll be at the office till 5 PM.”
  • A person might say, “I won’t eat anything till dinner.”
  • In a discussion about a deadline, someone might mention, “Please submit your report by tomorrow till noon.”

43. Unless

This word is used to introduce a condition that must be met for something to happen or be true.

  • For example, “I won’t go to the party unless my friend comes too.”
  • A person might say, “I won’t eat dessert unless it’s chocolate.”
  • In a conversation about travel, someone might mention, “I won’t book a flight unless it’s a direct one.”

44. As long as

This phrase is used to introduce a condition that must be met for something to happen or continue.

  • For instance, “I’ll help you as long as you promise to return the favor.”
  • A person might say, “I’ll stay here as long as it doesn’t rain.”
  • In a discussion about relationships, someone might mention, “I’ll support you as long as you’re honest with me.”

45. In case

This phrase is used to indicate that something is done or prepared for a possible event or situation.

  • For example, “I brought an umbrella in case it rains.”
  • A person might say, “I packed extra batteries in case the flashlight dies.”
  • In a conversation about safety, someone might mention, “Keep a first aid kit in your car in case of emergencies.”

46. When in Rome

This phrase means that when you are in a foreign country or unfamiliar situation, you should adopt the customs and behaviors of those around you.

  • For example, if you are visiting a different country and notice that people greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, you might say, “When in Rome, right?”
  • In a discussion about adapting to a new workplace, someone might advise, “When in Rome, dress professionally and follow the company culture.”
  • If a friend suggests trying a new type of cuisine, you might respond, “Sure, when in Rome!”
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