In case of need

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In case of need" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a situation where assistance or action may be required. Example: "Please keep my contact information handy in case of need."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With specific reference to the themes addressed in this publication, the interview guide explored how women and guérisseurs construct and define what constitutes a lactating problem and what prevention and treatment options they resort to in case of need.

BMC Public Health

In case of need, there can be full cover.

The Guardian

In case of need the country could first draw on its accumulated forced savings, provided it complies with a program set up and supervised by the Eurogroup.

The Economist

In case of need the orientation of the bone segmentation took the perforator vessels of the skin flap into account.

3D Printing in Medicine

In case of need, GPs directly and the local neurologist might both send patients further, to Tartu University Hospital, for higher-level neurological consultation (level three [7]).

The Journal of Headache and Pain

In case of need of discharging the methane molecules from the nanocapsule, it is necessary to open the outlet of the locking chamber by the K@C601+ion under the action of the electric field.

Nanoscale Research Letters

In case of need, IGF-1 can be released from IGFBPs.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

In case of need, frozen units of the SBFB could also be thawed.

Annals of Hematology

In case of need, urinary CS defects are repaired using monofilament sutures.

BioMed Research International

In case of need for multivariate analysis appropriate regression models e.g. logistic regression model, Cox proportional hazard model will be adopted.

BMC Cancer

The one thing that the pope, and the Vatican as a whole, can do is to appoint and, in case of need, sack bishops.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in case of need" when you want to indicate that something should be kept available or a plan should be in place if a particular situation arises. For example, "Keep a first-aid kit handy in case of need."

Common error

While "in case of need" is generally acceptable, in very formal writing, consider using alternatives like "should the need arise" or "if the necessity occurs" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in case of need" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a condition under which something might be required. As Ludwig AI pointed out, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in case of need" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that indicates contingency or preparedness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various writing contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in specific situations. The phrase is most commonly found in scientific and news-related sources. When using "in case of need", ensure it clearly communicates the conditional availability of a resource or plan, and consider the tone of your writing to determine if a more formal substitute is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

If the need arises

Emphasizes the conditional aspect, focusing on the emergence of the need.

If it becomes necessary

Direct and simple, clearly stating the condition for action.

Should the necessity occur

More formal, highlighting a possible, but not certain, necessary event.

In the event of a requirement

Similar, but uses "requirement" to underscore a mandatory condition.

When required

Shorter and more concise, implying action upon the need being made known.

If assistance is required

Specific, focusing on the need for help or support.

As a contingency measure

Highlights proactive planning for a possible negative event.

If the situation warrants

Implies a judgment call about whether action is necessary.

On the off chance that it's needed

Informal and somewhat colloquial, suggesting a low probability.

As a precaution

Emphasizes preparation for a potential, undesirable situation.

FAQs

How can I use "in case of need" in a sentence?

You can use "in case of need" to indicate a situation where something is available or a plan is in place should a particular situation arise. For example, "We have extra supplies stored in the basement "in case of need"".

What are some alternatives to "in case of need"?

Alternatives include "if the need arises", "should the necessity occur", or "if it becomes necessary", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is "in case of need" formal or informal?

"In case of need" is generally considered neutral, but can lean towards informal. More formal alternatives include "in the event of a requirement" or "should the need arise".

Which is correct, "in case of need" or "in case of needs"?

"In case of need" is the correct and more common form. "Needs" is typically used in other contexts, but is incorrect in this particular phrase.