In some languages such as my native languages (Kurdish and Persian), when we want to ask about the exact limit point of time for something, we use two words which are exactly equal to this two words in English: Until When?
For example, we say:
Until when do I have time to finish this project?
I would like to know how much this way of asking is natural in different English speaking countries? Or if it sounds pretty weird to you, please tell me how you say the above sentence in English.
Best Answer
I think the “until when” construct can work fine in a question like this, although I think I’d be inclined to change the order of the words:
Also, it’s worth noting that we will often put additional emphasis on the word when in such questions, particularly when expressing surprise. For example:
In this dialogue, Ned isn’t really asking Ted for a deadline; he is expressing incredulity that the deadline is coming so soon. In other words, Ned knows the project needs to be done by Friday, but he is astonished that he has so little time to accomplish so much work.
Of course, there are many other ways people can ask about an upcoming deadline. I especially like the suggestions provided by Bob Jarvis and Ronnie Childs elsewhere in answers and comments under this question: