The phrase “when you get a chance” is often used to make a polite, non-urgent request. While it’s friendly and respectful, there are many alternative expressions that can vary in tone, formality, and clarity—helping you tailor your communication to different settings.
Best Alternatives to “When You Get a Chance”
| Alternative Phrase | Best Use Case | Tone |
|---|---|---|
| At your convenience | Professional emails and formal requests | Polite, formal |
| Whenever you’re free | Friendly, flexible scheduling | Casual, informal |
| When you have a moment | Everyday business conversations | Neutral, respectful |
| If you get a moment | Slack messages, quick texts | Casual, polite |
| As soon as you’re able | Slightly more urgent yet respectful | Professional, mildly pressing |
| At a time that works for you | Scheduling or planning requests | Flexible, considerate |
| When it’s convenient for you | Client or superior-facing communications | Courteous, deferential |
| At your earliest convenience | Polite with implied urgency | Formal, slightly urgent |
Choosing the Right Alternative
- Use “At your convenience” in formal or professional settings.
- Say “Whenever you’re free” in casual or internal communications.
- Choose “When you have a moment” for neutral and polite phrasing.
- Opt for “As soon as you’re able” if there’s some urgency involved but you still want to remain respectful.
Example Sentences
Original: Please review the attached file when you get a chance.
Alternative: Please review the attached file at your convenience.
Original: Could you give me a call when you get a chance?
Alternative: Could you give me a call when you have a moment?
Original: Let me know your thoughts when you get a chance.
Alternative: Let me know your thoughts at a time that works for you.
Conclusion
Replacing “when you get a chance” with more tailored alternatives helps you adjust the tone and formality of your message. Whether you’re communicating with a client, colleague, or friend, these expressions offer greater clarity and professionalism.
FAQ
Is “when you get a chance” too casual for work?
It depends on your workplace culture. For more formality, use “at your convenience” or “when you have a moment.”
What’s a polite way to ask for something without rushing?
“At your convenience” or “When it’s convenient for you” are both polite and non-urgent alternatives.
Is “at your earliest convenience” too pushy?
It can imply urgency, so use it carefully. For softer tone, try “when you have a moment.”
Name That Term 
Leave a comment