Introducing a topic or area of expertise

To narrow conversation to a specific subject where something is true

Sharing strengths, preferences, specific knowledge

Conversation, presentations, informal writing

When it comes to

When it comes to

topic noun/gerund, main clause

• When it comes to cooking…
• When it comes to technology…
• When it comes to making decisions…

• “As far as … is concerned”
• “In terms of”

Using infinitive: *When it comes to cook* → cooking.

“As for”; “Speaking of”

Gerund after ‘to’ – common error

• topic-introduction frames

Casual but widely accepted in semi-formal contexts

Signals a shift to a specific subtopic

When it comes to + noun/-ing

When it comes to is a common English phrase used to introduce a specific topic or area of expertise. It is often used to narrow down a conversation or discussion to a particular subject. The phrase is semi-fixed, meaning that it can be followed by a noun or a gerund (verb-ing form) and must be followed by a main clause. Common variations include 'When it comes down to it,' which has an idiomatic meaning of 'ultimately.' Learners should be careful not to use an infinitive verb after 'to,' as the correct form is the gerund. Typical collocates include 'cooking,' 'technology,' and 'making decisions.' Similar phrases include 'As for' and 'Speaking of,' though these have slightly different nuances. The phrase is widely accepted in casual and semi-formal contexts and signals a shift to a specific subtopic. It is considered very high frequency and should be acquired for automatic production.

“When it comes to negotiating, few can match her skill.”