Is “even when” a conjunction?

Question

Does even when grammatically work the same as even though and even if work? Or is it more of a time expression?

Grammatically? Yes, certainly. Semantically? No, not really. But it is unclear what you are actually asking here. Please edit your question to explain what your real confusion is. — tchrist♦, Jan 6 '13 at 1:44

Julian · Accepted Answer · 2013-01-05 18:13:13Z

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These are all different.

Following the rules is essential, even when it's difficult.

Sometimes it is easy, other times difficult but ...

Following the rules is essential, even if it's difficult.

It might not be easy but ...

Following the rules is essential, even though it's difficult.

We know its not easy but ...

answered Jan 5 '13 at 17:45

Julian

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Maybe the word "might" isn't so useful in the first one, given when implies Sometimes it is easy, other times it is difficult. Or will be, if you like - the point is when implies it will definitely happen, sooner or later. – FumbleFingers Jan 5 '13 at 18:09
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Good call, I edited the answer. – Julian Jan 5 '13 at 18:13
Now I can upvote it! :) – FumbleFingers Jan 5 '13 at 18:35

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Sven Yargs · Accepted Answer · 2017-11-27 01:31:53Z

0

The phrase even when is a subordinating conjunction.

Compare these two sentences:

I keep correcting papers even when I am tired.

Even when I am tired, I keep correcting papers.

Sven Yargs

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answered Nov 26 '17 at 23:38

Ms. Narita

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Can you add a brief explanation of how a subordinating conjunction differs from a generic conjunction—and how you recognized "even when" as one? – Sven Yargs Nov 27 '17 at 1:33

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2 Answers 2