Formal synonyms for “when it comes to” help you introduce topics or areas of focus with a more professional tone. Instead of this casual phrase, you can use regarding, with respect to, or in terms of to frame your point more clearly in formal writing.
These alternatives are especially useful in academic papers, reports, or business communication. For example, “Regarding employee performance, training is essential,” “With respect to budget allocation, efficiency is key,” or “In terms of customer satisfaction, feedback drives improvement.” Each synonym keeps your message precise and polished.
Definition of “When It Comes To”
“When it comes to” is an idiomatic phrase used to introduce a specific topic or aspect being discussed or considered. It serves as a transition, directing attention to a particular subject within a broader context.
The phrase essentially means “with regard to” or “concerning.” It is commonly used in both spoken and written English, but it often sounds informal, especially in academic or professional contexts.
Classification: Idiomatic prepositional phrase.
Function: To introduce a specific topic or aspect under consideration.
Contexts: While acceptable in general conversation and informal writing, “when it comes to” is generally avoided in formal reports, academic papers, and professional communications where a more sophisticated tone is desired.
Structural Breakdown
The phrase “when it comes to” follows a specific grammatical structure. Understanding this structure can help you use it correctly and identify opportunities to substitute it with more formal alternatives.
The basic structure is: When it comes to + [noun phrase/gerund]
- When: A subordinating conjunction indicating the timing or condition.
- It: A dummy pronoun with no specific reference.
- Comes: The third-person singular present tense of the verb “come.”
- To: A preposition.
- [Noun phrase/gerund]: The topic or aspect being introduced. This can be a noun, a noun phrase, or a gerund (a verb acting as a noun).
For example:
- When it comes to budgeting, careful planning is essential. (Gerund)
- When it comes to project management, experience is a valuable asset. (Noun phrase)
- When it comes to the environment, we must take immediate action. (Noun phrase)
Formal Synonyms for “When It Comes To”
Several formal synonyms can replace “when it comes to,” each with slightly different nuances. Choosing the right synonym depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.
Regarding
“Regarding” means “concerning” or “relating to.” It is a versatile and widely accepted formal alternative. It’s generally used to introduce a new topic or to indicate the subject of a discussion or written piece.
Example: Regarding the proposed changes, further investigation is required.
Concerning
“Concerning” is similar to “regarding” and also means “relating to.” It is often used to introduce a topic that is causing worry or requiring attention.
Example: Concerning the recent allegations, the company has launched an internal investigation.
Pertaining To
“Pertaining to” means “relating directly to” or “concerning specifically.” It is a more formal and precise alternative, often used in legal or technical contexts.
Example: All documents pertaining to the case must be submitted by Friday.
With Respect To
“With respect to” is a formal phrase used to introduce a particular aspect or point of view. It is often used when addressing specific issues within a larger context.
Example: With respect to the financial projections, we anticipate a significant increase in revenue.
In Relation To
“In relation to” indicates a connection or association between two or more things. It is used to discuss how different elements are related or how they affect each other.
Example: In relation to the previous study, our findings suggest a different conclusion.
In Terms Of
“In terms of” is used to specify the aspect or criterion being considered. It helps to narrow down the focus of the discussion and provide a specific perspective.
Example: In terms of efficiency, the new system has proven to be a significant improvement.
As Regards
“As regards” is a formal synonym for “regarding” and is used to introduce a topic. It is somewhat less common than “regarding” but still appropriate in formal writing.
Example: As regards the implementation of the new policy, training sessions will be provided for all staff.
Relative To
“Relative to” is used to compare something to a specific standard or point of reference. It indicates that the discussion is about how something measures up against something else.
Example: Relative to the previous quarter, sales have increased by 15 percent.
In the Context Of
“In the context of” is used to specify the broader situation or framework within which something is being considered. It provides background information and helps to understand the topic in its proper setting.
Example: In the context of the current economic climate, investment decisions must be made cautiously.
On the Subject Of
“On the subject of” is a formal way to introduce a new topic or to indicate the focus of a discussion. It is similar to “regarding” but can sound slightly more academic.
Example: On the subject of environmental sustainability, the company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint.
Examples
To illustrate the use of these formal synonyms, consider the following examples. Each table provides a range of sentences using “when it comes to” and its formal alternatives.
The following table provides examples of “when it comes to” and its formal alternatives in the context of business.
| Original (Informal) | Formal Alternative |
|---|---|
| When it comes to marketing, social media is essential. | Regarding marketing strategies, social media is essential. |
| When it comes to financial planning, we need to be cautious. | Concerning financial planning, we need to exercise caution. |
| When it comes to legal matters, consult with an expert. | Pertaining to legal matters, it is advisable to consult with an expert. |
| When it comes to employee benefits, we offer a comprehensive package. | With respect to employee benefits, we offer a comprehensive package. |
| When it comes to our competitors, we are constantly monitoring their actions. | In relation to our competitors, we are constantly monitoring their actions. |
| When it comes to cost-effectiveness, this new system is superior. | In terms of cost-effectiveness, this new system is superior. |
| When it comes to project timelines, we are on schedule. | As regards project timelines, we are currently on schedule. |
| When it comes to market share, we have seen significant growth. | Relative to last year, we have seen significant growth in market share. |
| When it comes to risk assessment, we need a detailed analysis. | In the context of risk assessment, we require a detailed analysis. |
| When it comes to customer satisfaction, we strive for excellence. | On the subject of customer satisfaction, we strive for excellence. |
| When it comes to product development, innovation is key. | Regarding product development, innovation is key. |
| When it comes to data security, we have stringent protocols in place. | Concerning data security, we have stringent protocols in place. |
| When it comes to contract negotiations, legal counsel is essential. | Pertaining to contract negotiations, legal counsel is essential. |
| When it comes to staff training, we invest heavily in our employees. | With respect to staff training, we invest heavily in our employees. |
| When it comes to international expansion, thorough research is required. | In relation to international expansion, thorough research is required. |
| When it comes to the supply chain, efficiency is crucial. | In terms of supply chain management, efficiency is crucial. |
| When it comes to regulatory compliance, we adhere to all standards. | As regards regulatory compliance, we adhere to all standards. |
| When it comes to profitability, we have exceeded expectations. | Relative to previous forecasts, we have exceeded expectations in profitability. |
| When it comes to crisis management, a swift response is necessary. | In the context of crisis management, a swift response is necessary. |
| When it comes to corporate social responsibility, we are dedicated to sustainability. | On the subject of corporate social responsibility, we are dedicated to sustainability. |
| When it comes to brand reputation, we prioritize ethical practices. | Regarding brand reputation, we prioritize ethical practices. |
| When it comes to investment strategies, diversification is key. | Concerning investment strategies, diversification is key. |
| When it comes to intellectual property, we take protection seriously. | Pertaining to intellectual property, we take protection seriously. |
| When it comes to performance reviews, feedback is essential. | With respect to performance reviews, constructive feedback is essential. |
| When it comes to technology adoption, we embrace innovation. | In relation to technology adoption, we embrace innovation. |
| When it comes to resource allocation, efficiency is paramount. | In terms of resource allocation, efficiency is paramount. |
| When it comes to strategic planning, long-term vision is necessary. | As regards strategic planning, a long-term vision is necessary. |
| When it comes to employee retention, competitive compensation is important. | Relative to industry standards, competitive compensation is important for employee retention. |
| When it comes to risk mitigation, proactive measures are required. | In the context of risk mitigation, proactive measures are required. |
| When it comes to workplace safety, we maintain strict protocols. | On the subject of workplace safety, we maintain strict protocols. |
The following table provides examples of “when it comes to” and its formal alternatives in the context of education.
| Original (Informal) | Formal Alternative |
|---|---|
| When it comes to academic research, thorough analysis is essential. | Regarding academic research, thorough analysis is essential. |
| When it comes to student performance, consistent effort is key. | Concerning student performance, consistent effort is key. |
| When it comes to university admissions, high grades are important. | Pertaining to university admissions, high grades are important. |
| When it comes to curriculum development, collaboration is crucial. | With respect to curriculum development, collaboration is crucial. |
| When it comes to online learning, engagement is vital. | In relation to online learning, student engagement is vital. |
| When it comes to assessment methods, variety is beneficial. | In terms of assessment methods, a variety of approaches is beneficial. |
| When it comes to teacher training, continuous professional development is necessary. | As regards teacher training, continuous professional development is necessary. |
| When it comes to educational funding, resources are limited. | Relative to the needs, resources for educational funding are limited. |
| When it comes to academic integrity, honesty is paramount. | In the context of academic integrity, honesty is paramount. |
| When it comes to student support, accessibility is crucial. | On the subject of student support, accessibility is crucial. |
| When it comes to research grants, a strong proposal is essential. | Regarding research grants, a strong proposal is essential. |
| When it comes to classroom management, discipline is important. | Concerning classroom management, effective discipline is important. |
| When it comes to higher education, lifelong learning is emphasized. | Pertaining to higher education, lifelong learning is emphasized. |
| When it comes to student feedback, it is used to improve teaching methods. | With respect to student feedback, it is used to improve teaching methods. |
| When it comes to interdisciplinary studies, collaboration is encouraged. | In relation to interdisciplinary studies, collaboration is encouraged. |
| When it comes to educational technology, integration is key. | In terms of educational technology, seamless integration is key. |
| When it comes to school policies, they are designed to ensure safety. | As regards school policies, they are designed to ensure safety. |
| When it comes to graduation rates, improvements have been made this year. | Relative to previous years, improvements have been made in graduation rates this year. |
| When it comes to ethical considerations in research, adherence to guidelines is essential. | In the context of ethical considerations in research, adherence to guidelines is essential. |
| When it comes to special education, individualized support is critical. | On the subject of special education, individualized support is critical. |
| When it comes to scholarship applications, a well-written essay is essential. | Regarding scholarship applications, a well-written essay is essential. |
| When it comes to the grading system, fairness and consistency are important. | Concerning the grading system, fairness and consistency are important. |
| When it comes to academic advising, personalized guidance is crucial. | Pertaining to academic advising, personalized guidance is crucial. |
| When it comes to extracurricular activities, student involvement is encouraged. | With respect to extracurricular activities, student involvement is encouraged. |
| When it comes to the library resources, accessibility is prioritized. | In relation to the library resources, accessibility is prioritized. |
| When it comes to the school budget, transparency is essential. | In terms of the school budget, transparency is essential. |
| When it comes to professional development for teachers, ongoing training is crucial. | As regards professional development for teachers, ongoing training is crucial. |
| When it comes to student retention rates, early intervention programs are effective. | Relative to previous intervention methods, early intervention programs are effective for student retention rates. |
| When it comes to creating a positive learning environment, inclusivity is key. | In the context of creating a positive learning environment, inclusivity is key. |
| When it comes to the study of literature, critical analysis is a key skill. | On the subject of the study of literature, critical analysis is a key skill. |
The following table provides examples of “when it comes to” and its formal alternatives in the context of scientific research.
| Original (Informal) | Formal Alternative |
|---|---|
| When it comes to data analysis, statistical software is essential. | Regarding data analysis, statistical software is essential. |
| When it comes to experimental design, controlling variables is crucial. | Concerning experimental design, controlling variables is crucial. |
| When it comes to laboratory safety, following protocols is mandatory. | Pertaining to laboratory safety, following protocols is mandatory. |
| When it comes to research funding, a compelling proposal is necessary. | With respect to research funding, a compelling proposal is necessary. |
| When it comes to peer review, objectivity is vital. | In relation to peer review, objectivity is vital. |
| When it comes to scientific publications, accuracy is paramount. | In terms of scientific publications, accuracy is paramount. |
| When it comes to ethical considerations, informed consent is required. | As regards ethical considerations, informed consent is required. |
| When it comes to research outcomes, reproducibility is important. | Relative to previous findings, reproducibility of research outcomes is important. |
| When it comes to data collection, precision is essential. | In the context of data collection, precision is essential. |
| When it comes to scientific collaboration, communication is key. | On the subject of scientific collaboration, effective communication is key. |
| When it comes to hypothesis testing, rigorous methods are necessary. | Regarding hypothesis testing, rigorous methods are necessary. |
| When it comes to literature reviews, a comprehensive search is crucial. | Concerning literature reviews, a comprehensive search is crucial. |
| When it comes to statistical significance, a p-value less than 0.05 is often used. | Pertaining to statistical significance, a p-value less than 0.05 is often used. |
| When it comes to data interpretation, caution is advised. | With respect to data interpretation, caution is advised. |
| When it comes to interdisciplinary research, diverse perspectives are valuable. | In relation to interdisciplinary research, diverse perspectives are valuable. |
| When it comes to research methodology, validity is essential. | In terms of research methodology, validity is essential. |
| When it comes to publishing research findings, transparency is crucial. | As regards publishing research findings, transparency is crucial. |
| When it comes to sample sizes, larger samples are generally preferred. | Relative to the population size, larger samples are generally preferred. |
| When it comes to experimental controls, minimizing bias is critical. | In the context of experimental controls, minimizing bias is critical. |
| When it comes to research ethics, protecting participant rights is paramount. | On the subject of research ethics, protecting participant rights is paramount. |
| When it comes to the scientific method, objectivity is a cornerstone. | Regarding the scientific method, objectivity is a cornerstone. |
| When it comes to conducting surveys, carefully crafted questions are essential. | Concerning conducting surveys, carefully crafted questions are essential. |
| When it comes to clinical trials, patient safety is the top priority. | Pertaining to clinical trials, patient safety is the top priority. |
| When it comes to analyzing qualitative data, thematic analysis is common. | With respect to analyzing qualitative data, thematic analysis is common. |
| When it comes to longitudinal studies, long-term commitment is required. | In relation to longitudinal studies, long-term commitment is required. |
| When it comes to selecting statistical tests, the data type matters. | In terms of selecting statistical tests, the data type matters. |
| When it comes to writing research reports, clarity and conciseness are essential. | As regards writing research reports, clarity and conciseness are essential. |
| When it comes to interpreting correlations, causation cannot be assumed. | Relative to the variables, causation cannot be assumed when interpreting correlations. |
| When it comes to designing questionnaires, avoiding leading questions is crucial. | In the context of designing questionnaires, avoiding leading questions is crucial. |
| When it comes to research integrity, honesty and transparency are key. | On the subject of research integrity, honesty and transparency are key. |
Usage Rules
While the formal synonyms discussed above generally replace “when it comes to,” it’s important to understand the specific contexts in which each is most appropriate.
- “Regarding” and “Concerning” are versatile and can be used interchangeably in many situations to introduce a topic.
- “Pertaining to” is more specific and should be used when referring to something directly related to the subject at hand, particularly in legal or technical contexts.
- “With respect to” is useful when addressing specific aspects or points of view within a broader topic.
- “In relation to” is suitable when discussing the connection or relationship between different elements.
- “In terms of” is best used when specifying the particular aspect or criterion being considered.
- “As regards” is a slightly less common but still acceptable alternative to “regarding.”
- “Relative to” is used for comparisons against a specific standard or reference point.
- “In the context of” is appropriate when providing background information or framing the discussion within a broader situation.
- “On the subject of” is used to introduce a new topic, often in a more academic manner.
Exception: In very informal settings, “when it comes to” may still be acceptable, but it should generally be avoided in formal writing.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using formal synonyms for “when it comes to”:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| When it comes to, the report is ready. | Regarding the report, it is ready. | Ensure the synonym is followed by the topic being introduced. |
| Concerning of the budget, we have exceeded it. | Concerning the budget, we have exceeded it. | Avoid adding extra prepositions like “of” after the synonym. |
| Pertaining to, the documents are confidential. | Pertaining to these documents, they are confidential. | Clearly specify what the synonym refers to. |
| With respect of the rules, we must comply. | With respect to the rules, we must comply. | Use the correct preposition (“to”). |
| In relation of our goals, we are on track. | In relation to our goals, we are on track. | Use the correct preposition (“to”). |
| In terms the cost, it is too high. | In terms of the cost, it is too high. | Use the correct preposition (“of”). |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Replace “when it comes to” with a more formal synonym in each sentence.
Exercise 1:
- When it comes to project deadlines, we must be punctual.
- When it comes to customer feedback, we value their opinions.
- When it comes to legal compliance, we adhere to all regulations.
- When it comes to employee satisfaction, we conduct regular surveys.
- When it comes to market analysis, we use advanced tools.
- When it comes to budget allocation, efficiency is paramount.
- When it comes to data security, we have robust measures in place.
- When it comes to strategic planning, long-term vision is essential.
- When it comes to risk management, we implement proactive strategies.
- When it comes to performance evaluations, fairness is crucial.
Answer Key:
- Regarding project deadlines, we must be punctual.
- Concerning customer feedback, we value their opinions.
- Pertaining to legal compliance, we adhere to all regulations.
- With respect to employee satisfaction, we conduct regular surveys.
- In relation to market analysis, we use advanced tools.
- In terms of budget allocation, efficiency is paramount.
- As regards data security, we have robust measures in place.
- In the context of strategic planning, long-term vision is essential.
- Relative to risk management, we implement proactive strategies.
- On the subject of performance evaluations, fairness is crucial.
Exercise 2:
- When it comes to academic writing, clarity is essential.
- When it comes to research methodology, validity is crucial.
- When it comes to ethical considerations, informed consent is required.
- When it comes to data analysis, statistical methods are used.
- When it comes to literature reviews, comprehensive searches are necessary.
- When it comes to experimental design, control groups are essential.
- When it comes to scientific publications, peer review is mandatory.
- When it comes to research funding, strong proposals are required.
- When it comes to data interpretation, caution is advised.
- When it comes to scientific collaboration, communication is key.
Answer Key:
- Regarding academic writing, clarity is essential.
- Concerning research methodology, validity is crucial.
- Pertaining to ethical considerations, informed consent is required.
- With respect to data analysis, statistical methods are used.
- In relation to literature reviews, comprehensive searches are necessary.
- In terms of experimental design, control groups are essential.
- As regards scientific publications, peer review is mandatory.
- In the context of research funding, strong proposals are required.
- Relative to data interpretation, caution is advised.
- On the subject of scientific collaboration, communication is key.
Exercise 3:
- When it comes to project management, organization is key.
- When it comes to team communication, transparency is important.
- When it comes to resource allocation, efficiency is crucial.
- When it comes to problem-solving, critical thinking is essential.
- When it comes to decision-making, data analysis is vital.
- When it comes to conflict resolution, mediation can be effective.
- When it comes to time management, prioritization is important.
- When it comes to goal setting, clarity is essential.
- When it comes to performance improvement, feedback is crucial.
- When it comes to leadership skills, empathy is valuable.
Answer Key:
- Regarding project management, organization is key.
- Concerning team communication, transparency is important.
- Pertaining to resource allocation, efficiency is crucial.
- With respect to problem-solving, critical thinking is essential.
- In relation to decision-making, data analysis is vital.
- In terms of conflict resolution, mediation can be effective.
- As regards time management, prioritization is important.
- In the context of goal setting, clarity is essential.
- Relative to performance improvement, feedback is crucial.
- On the subject of leadership skills, empathy is valuable.
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider exploring the use of more nuanced and sophisticated alternatives. These include:
- “In connection with”: Used to indicate a direct relationship or association.
- “With regard to”: Similar to “regarding” but slightly more formal.
- “Anent”: An archaic term meaning “concerning” or “about.” (Use with caution as it is not commonly used in modern English.)
Additionally, explore how these synonyms can be integrated into more complex sentence structures to create sophisticated and impactful writing.
FAQ
Q: Is “when it comes to” always inappropriate in formal writing?
A: While generally discouraged, it might be acceptable in less formal sections of a report or presentation. However, it’s best to opt for a formal synonym to maintain a consistent tone.
Q: Can I use “regarding” and “concerning” interchangeably?
A: Yes, in most cases, “regarding” and “concerning” can be used interchangeably. However, “concerning” sometimes implies a sense of worry or urgency.
Q: When should I use “pertaining to”?
A: “Pertaining to” is best used when referring to something directly and specifically related to the subject, particularly in legal or technical contexts where precision is important.
Q: What is the difference between “with respect to” and “in relation to”?
A: “With respect to” addresses specific aspects or points of view, while “in relation to” discusses the connection or relationship between different elements.
Q: Is “as regards” commonly used?
A: “As regards” is less common than “regarding” but still appropriate in formal writing. It may sound slightly old-fashioned to some.
Q: How can I improve my formal writing skills in general?
A: Read widely in formal styles, such as academic journals, professional reports, and classic literature. Practice writing regularly and seek feedback from experienced writers or editors. Focus on clarity, precision, and avoiding colloquialisms.
Q: Are there any regional differences in the preference for these formal synonyms?
A: While the core meaning remains consistent, certain regions or industries may show a slight preference for one synonym over another. For example, “pertaining to” might be more common in legal documents in certain jurisdictions. However, these are minor variations, and all the synonyms discussed are widely understood in formal English.
Q: How do I choose the best synonym for a particular context?
A: Consider the specific nuance you want to convey. If you want to introduce a general topic, “regarding” or “concerning” are suitable. If you want to emphasize a direct connection, use “pertaining to.” If you want to compare something, use “relative to.” Always choose the option that best fits the context and contributes to the overall clarity and formality of your writing.
Conclusion
Mastering formal language requires attention to detail and a willingness to replace informal expressions with more sophisticated alternatives. By understanding the nuances of synonyms like “regarding,” “concerning,” “pertaining to,” and others, you can elevate your writing and speaking, making your communication more effective in professional and academic settings.
Remember to practice using these synonyms in various contexts to become comfortable with their specific usages. With consistent effort, you can refine your formal English skills and communicate with greater confidence and authority.
Keep this guide handy as a reference, and continue to expand your vocabulary and grammatical knowledge.