Even if it were

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Even if it were" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a hypothetical situation that is contrary to fact, often to emphasize a point or argument. Example: "Even if it were true that he didn't care, it wouldn't justify his actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Even if it were, foreign retailers are treated inequitably.

The Economist

Even if it were willing, that would raise antitrust eyebrows.

The Economist

Even if it were renewed, it would not matter.

The New York Times - Sports

Even if it were, a vegan doesn't exploit animals.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Even if it were, it won't be enough.

The Guardian

Even if it were, most Americans believe that they still have the military edge.

The Economist

Even if it were to win Dofasco's hand, Arcelor would lag some way behind.

The Economist

Even if it were held, Mrs Plavsic may lack the resources to mount a credible campaign.

The Economist

Even if it were possible, it would be a mistake, especially in these very difficult times.

The New York Times

Even if it were passed, it would not make much difference to other intractable policy problems.

The Economist

Even if it were desirable to try, some form of common jurisdiction would be essential.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Even if it were", ensure the following clause clearly outlines the consequence or lack thereof, emphasizing the main point despite the hypothetical condition.

Common error

Avoid using "Even if it were" when discussing factual scenarios. This phrase is best suited for hypothetical or counterfactual situations where the condition is unlikely or untrue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Even if it were" introduces a conditional clause expressing a hypothetical or counterfactual situation. It sets up a scenario that may not be true in reality, allowing the speaker or writer to explore the consequences or implications as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Even if it were" is a conjunction phrase that introduces a hypothetical or counterfactual situation. It's grammatically correct and commonly used to concede a point while emphasizing a primary argument. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is prevalent in "News & Media" and scientific contexts, showcasing its adaptability. When writing, remember it serves to discuss unlikely scenarios and to consider using alternative expressions to add depth to your statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Even if that were the case

Rephrases "it were" for clarity, reinforcing the hypothetical situation.

Even on the assumption that it was

Emphasizes the conditional nature of the statement based on an assumption.

Even in the event that it was

Highlights the possibility of a specific situation and its consequences.

Even supposing it was

Replaces "if" with "supposing", emphasizing a hypothetical scenario.

Even assuming it to be

Replaces "if" with "assuming", focusing on the assumption's impact.

Granting that it was

Uses "granting that" to concede a point for the sake of argument.

Assuming it had been

Shifts the hypothetical to the past, implying a condition that didn't occur.

If it happened to be

Introduces an element of chance or possibility to the hypothetical.

Let's say it was

Presents the hypothetical as a thought experiment or consideration.

Supposing it turned out to be

Adds an element of discovery or realization to the hypothetical.

FAQs

How can I use "Even if it were" in a sentence?

"Even if it were" is used to introduce a hypothetical situation, often to emphasize a point. For instance, "Even if it were true that he apologized, his actions still caused harm."

What phrases are similar to "Even if it were"?

Alternatives include phrases like "even supposing it was", "even assuming it to be", or "even if that were the case", each offering slightly different nuances.

Is it correct to say "Even if it was" instead of "Even if it were"?

While "Even if it was" is grammatically acceptable in some contexts, "Even if it were" is generally preferred for hypothetical or subjunctive situations, emphasizing the unreal or unlikely nature of the condition.

What's the difference between "Even if it was" and "Even if it were"?

"Even if it was" implies a possibility that something might have been true, whereas "Even if it were" suggests a hypothetical or counterfactual situation that is less likely or not true at all.