Correct Usage of ‘Once’ in English Sentences

In the ever-evolving realm of English grammar, the usage of conjunctions like 'once' can often be tricky, especially when it comes to verb tenses. This article will explore the correct usage of 'once' in sentences, particularly focusing on scenarios involving the verbs 'call' and 'receive'. Understanding these nuances can significantly improve your communication and writing prowess.

Correct Sentences with 'Once'

The correct sentence is: I tried to calling him.

While both sentences you provided are grammatically correct, the first sentence is slightly awkward. Here are two corrected versions:

I tried to reach out through a phone call

This is a correct and clear way to express your intention. The phrase 'tried to calling him' is incorrect because 'try' is a verb and should be followed by 'to call' rather than 'calling'. Remember that 'try to do sth' is the correct phrase in this context.

Proper Usage in Business Communication

In a business situation, it is important to be precise and professional. Therefore, replacing 'once' with 'when' is more appropriate. For example:

"I will get back to you once I have received the reply from the tenant."

Alternatively:

"I will get back to you once I receive the reply from the tenant."

Comparing Sentence Styles

Let's compare these sentences:

Sentence 1: I will get back to you after I have received the/a reply from the tenant.

Here, the event in the adverbial clause with 'after' needs to be a completed event. Using the present perfect tense ('have received') correctly places emphasis on the completion of the action.

Sentence 2: I will get back to you once I receive the/a reply from the tenant.

With the main clause in the future tense, the verb in the subordinate clause is to be in the simple present tense. This form is often used to denote planned future actions.

Analysis of User Forum Responses

User forums like The Grammar Exchange provide valuable insights into the common usage of such constructions. Here are two informed responses from the forum:

Response 1:

Both sentences are correct. Sentence 2 emphasizes the completion of an action, which is probably unnecessary most of the time. Most people would just go with the first option: Give me a call once you reach home. This suggests that you might call shortly after you get home.

Response 2:

Both of your sentences are possible. The simple present in the first sentence would be more commonly used.

The simple present tends to sound more like the speaker wants you to call as soon as you get home. The present perfect, in the second sentence, tends to remove some of the sense of immediacy—there might be a short delay before the call is made.

Google Ngram Analysis

The Google Ngram function has provided a graphic representation of the frequency of use of "once I receive" vs. "once I have received" in printed material. The graph verifies that in current usage, "once I receive" is more popular.

Conclusion

Understanding the correct usage of 'once' can help you convey your intended meaning clearly and professionally. Whether you prefer simple present or present perfect tense, the key is to ensure that the verb in the subordinate clause matches the tense of the main clause, particularly when using future tense.

Related Keywords

‘once’, receive, receive have received