Failing that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Failing that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that if the previous suggestion or option does not work, an alternative will be considered. Example: "We can try to resolve the issue through negotiation. Failing that, we may need to consider legal action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Failing that, will there be a revolution?

The Economist

Failing that, he can still appeal.

The Economist

Failing that, he'll shutter it.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Failing that, I'll consider everything".

The New York Times - Sports

Failing that, you need excess.

The New York Times

Failing that: stay up and beat Wolves.

The Guardian - Sport

Failing that, he would become a novelist.

The New Yorker

"Failing that, I'm going to the laundromat".

The New York Times

Failing that, Plan C is corporate.

TechCrunch

Failing that: known locally as Beartown?

Vice

Failing that, he was all in.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "failing that" to clearly present a backup plan or alternative when the primary option is not viable. It adds a layer of logical flow to your writing.

Common error

While "failing that" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in highly formal or academic writing where a more sophisticated alternative like "in the alternative" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Failing that" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the main clause by indicating a conditional alternative. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use to introduce a secondary action if the primary one is not possible.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Failing that" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce an alternative course of action when the initial plan is not feasible. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent use across diverse sources. It is considered neutral in tone, fitting for both general and professional contexts. When aiming for higher formality, consider alternatives such as "in the alternative". To enhance clarity in your writing, use "Failing that" to explicitly present contingency plans.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

If that doesn't work

Replaces "failing that" with a more direct conditional clause.

If that fails

A shorter, more concise way to express the same contingency.

Otherwise

A simple and direct way to introduce an alternative.

If not

A very brief and common way to present a secondary option.

As an alternative

Directly states that a different option is available.

In the alternative

A more formal way of introducing an alternative option.

As a last resort

Emphasizes that the alternative is only to be considered if all else fails.

If all else fails

Similar to "as a last resort", but more common in everyday language.

Should that not succeed

A more formal and emphatic version of "if that fails".

Absent that

A more concise and somewhat formal alternative.

FAQs

How can I use "Failing that" in a sentence?

Use "Failing that" to introduce an alternative plan or course of action if the initial one is not possible. For example, "We can try to negotiate a settlement. "Failing that", we will proceed to litigation."

What are some alternatives to "Failing that"?

Some alternatives include "if that doesn't work", "otherwise", or "in the alternative", depending on the context.

Is "Failing that" formal or informal?

"Failing that" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in most contexts. However, "in the alternative" is a more formal substitute.

What is the difference between "Failing that" and "If that fails"?

"Failing that" is a more concise way of saying "if that fails". Both express the same conditional relationship, but "failing that" is slightly more succinct.