If and when

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "If and when" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate uncertainty about the timing of an event or action, suggesting that something will happen at an unspecified time in the future. Example: "I will let you know if and when I receive the information you requested."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If and when it goes wrong, most provide support.

Independent

If and when that happens, Airbus has bigger ambitions.

The Economist

If and when will the new businesses make money?

The New York Times

"If and when it gets taken back, what happens?

The New York Times

"If and when he decides to step down".

The New York Times

If and when Federer blows it, will he be sad?

The New Yorker

If and when that happens, we'll talk border polls.

The Guardian - Opinion

If and when they get serious, they'll find us.

The New York Times

If and when gold rebounds, the expense ratio should drop.

Forbes

If and when they want to. 1.

Huffington Post

If and when your parents see it, be ready.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if and when" to clearly indicate that an event is not certain to occur, making it clear that a subsequent action is conditional. For example, "We will proceed with the project if and when funding is secured."

Common error

Avoid using "if and when" when only one condition needs to be expressed. Overusing it can make your writing sound verbose. For instance, instead of saying "I will call you if and when I arrive", use "I will call you when I arrive" if arrival is certain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "If and when" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, introducing a conditional clause that specifies both the contingency and the potential timing of an event. As Ludwig suggests, this phrase is appropriate and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

15%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "If and when" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed conjunctive phrase, according to Ludwig. It functions to express a conditional situation where both the occurrence and timing of an event are uncertain. Commonly found in "News & Media", "Wiki", and "Science", it's used to set up expectations and dependencies. When writing, remember that "If and when" is best used when there is genuine uncertainty about if, and when, something will occur. If you only mean "if" or "when", don't use "if and when". Be mindful of redundancy and aim for clarity in your expression. Use the suggestions above to improve your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

When and if

Reverses the order of 'if' and 'when', slightly altering the emphasis but retaining similar meaning.

In the event that

Formal alternative emphasizing conditionality, suitable for official contexts.

Should it happen

Emphasizes the hypothetical nature of the event, often used in formal contexts.

Assuming that it occurs

Highlights the assumption of occurrence as a prerequisite.

If it should come to pass

Formal and somewhat archaic, stressing the potential for realization.

Contingent on its occurrence

Highlights the dependence of a subsequent event on the prior one.

Once and if

Places more emphasis on the 'once' the condition is met, altering the focus slightly from a potential 'when'.

On the occasion that

Emphasizes a specific instance or event.

In circumstances where

Highlights the conditional context or setting.

Provided that it ever does

Adds a skeptical tone about the likelihood of the event happening.

FAQs

How can I use "If and when" in a sentence?

Use "If and when" to express that something will happen at a time that is contingent on a specific event occurring. For example, "We will announce the results if and when they become available."

What is an alternative to saying "If and when"?

You can use alternatives such as "in the event that", "should it happen", or "assuming that it occurs" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "When and if" instead of "If and when"?

While "When and if" is technically understandable, "If and when" is the more common and idiomatic phrasing. "If and when" emphasizes both the condition and the potential timing, while "when and if" slightly shifts the emphasis.

What's the difference between "If" and "If and when"?

"If" indicates a condition, while "If and when" implies both a condition and uncertainty about the timing of its fulfillment. "If" focuses solely on whether something happens, whereas "If and when" considers both the possibility and the timing of the event.