Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[hela]

Dear teachers,

I know that after "by the time" we have to use the future perfect but are these constructions possible? If yes, WHY?

1) By the time he arrives, we will have a meeting.
2) By the time he comes we will know the answer.
3) By the time she has been on her diet for two weeks we will see a difference.

I would be grateful if I could have an answer soon.
Hela

[Harmony]

[hela]

Thanks Harmony for all these examples but I don't see anyone with the simple future in the main clause. I'd like to know how is this possible and would be the meaning of the sentence in that case.

I understand the idea perfectly when we use the perfect aspect in the main clause but not when the simple is used. So would you please explain to me how the following sentences work? What do they mean?

1) By the time we got to Woodstock the plans were in place.

2) I hope there is a decision by the time my daughter starts grade school.

3) By the time the fog lifts, the morning is half over.

4) By the time the troops arrive, the war is in full swing.

5) By the time he arrives, we will have a meeting.

6) By the time he comes we will know the answer.

7) By the time she has been on her diet for two weeks we will see a difference.

Many thanks