If and When
Can you say, 'I will return your book on Friday when I have read it.' instead of 'I will return your book on Friday if I have read it.'?
In my opinion the former (with 'when') is wrong. But I cannot say why it is wrong. I would appreciate it if someone could help me.
Top answer
I think the first is confusing because the "when I have read it" is floating around in time (you could read it tomorrow or in a month) while "on Friday" is very specific. You cannot have it both ways. So either: I will return your book after I have read it.
- I think the first is confusing because the "when I have read it" is floating around in time (you could read it tomorrow or in a month) while "on Friday" is very specific.
- You cannot have it both ways.
- So either: I will return your book after I have read it.
- (No set time) Or: I will return your book on Friday if I have read it (by then).
- Does that help?
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I think the first is confusing because the "when I have read it" is floating around in time (you could read it tomorrow or in a month) while "on Friday" is very specific. You cannot have it both ways.
So either:
I will return your book after I have read it. (No set time)
Or:
I will return your book on Friday if I have read it (by then).
Does that help?
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