〜とき
when ~
Show when one action happens in relation to another.
Remember it
Place two moments on a timeline and join them with 〜とき.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜とき」 means "when ~". Structure: Verb/Noun + とき. This is a JLPT N5 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Use it for routines, status updates, sequences, and telling stories.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
At school
Example 1勉強のとき、静かにしてください。
べんきょうのとき、しずかにしてください。
benkyounotoki, shizukanishitekudasai.
Please be quiet during the study.
Everyday life
Example 2質問のとき、静かにしてください。
しつもんのとき、しずかにしてください。
shitsumonnotoki, shizukanishitekudasai.
Please be quiet during the question.
Shopping & services
Example 3買い物のとき、静かにしてください。
かいもののとき、しずかにしてください。
kaimononotoki, shizukanishitekudasai.
Please be quiet during the shopping.
Everyday life
Example 4洗濯のとき、静かにしてください。
せんたくのとき、しずかにしてください。
sentakunotoki, shizukanishitekudasai.
Please be quiet during the laundry.
Everyday life
Example 5電話のとき、静かにしてください。
でんわのとき、しずかにしてください。
denwanotoki, shizukanishitekudasai.
Please be quiet during the telephone call.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
Please be quiet during the study.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜とき.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.