Future Time Clauses

B1 Eiken 2 Intermediate

when/after/before/as soon as/until + present simple, will + base verb

Explanation

Use a present simple verb in a future time clause after words like "when", "after", "before", "as soon as", and "until". Do not use "will" in that clause.

For example, "When I finish work, I will call you." Here "When I finish work" is the time clause, and "finish" is present simple, not "will finish". "I will call you" is the main clause, so it takes "will" for the future result. Japanese often says "着いたら電話する" or "仕事が終わったら帰る", so the idea is similar, but English must keep the time clause in present simple.

Examples

  • When I get home, I will make dinner. 家に着いたら、夕食を作ります。
  • After we finish class, we will go to the station. 授業が終わったら、駅へ行きます。
  • Before you leave, please turn off the lights. 出る前に、電気を消してください。
  • As soon as she arrives, I will text her. 彼女が着いたらすぐに、メッセージを送ります。
  • Will you call me when you have time? 時間があるときに電話してくれますか。
  • I won't start dinner until everyone gets here. みんなが来るまで、夕食は始めません。

Common Mistakes

Japanese learners often put "will" in the time clause.

Wrong: "When I will get home, I will call you."

Right: "When I get home, I will call you."

The time clause needs present simple, even though the meaning is future.

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