Under certain circumstances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under certain circumstances" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to indicate that a certain condition or situation must be met in order for something else to occur. It can be used at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. Example: Under certain circumstances, the company may offer a refund. I have a strict no-refund policy, but under certain circumstances, I may make an exception. The project can only be completed under certain circumstances, such as having enough funding and resources.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Under certain circumstances, even attorney-client conversation could be retained.

The Guardian

Under certain circumstances, Rosen can manifest more intimidating, donlike characteristics.

The New Yorker

Under certain circumstances, fast-rising asset prices are justified.

The Economist

(Under certain circumstances, computer programs may receive patent protection).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Under certain circumstances, abortions are legal.

Science Magazine

Under certain circumstances, it is a catalyst to the political process.

Vice

Under certain circumstances cells were counterstained with nuclei dyes.

Plosone

Under certain circumstances, activation of JNKs contributes to proliferation.

British Journal of Cancer

Under certain circumstances, NOS can form O2– instead of NO.

Chemical Reviews

Under certain circumstances, a biomarker can provide valuable information.

CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology

Under certain circumstances, resistance to fluoroquinolones can emerge during treatment.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under certain circumstances" to introduce exceptions or conditions to a general statement, ensuring clarity about when the statement applies and when it doesn't. Avoid overuse to maintain impact.

Common error

Avoid using "under certain circumstances" when the condition is already implied or obvious. Overusing the phrase can make your writing seem hesitant or lacking confidence. Be direct when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under certain circumstances" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by indicating the conditions under which an action or event occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under certain circumstances" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce specific conditions or exceptions. It's grammatically sound and commonly found across diverse contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. While frequently used, particularly in scientific and news-related content, it should be employed thoughtfully to avoid redundancy and maintain clarity. For alternatives, consider "in specific scenarios" or "depending on the situation" to match the intended tone and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In specific scenarios

Replaces "circumstances" with "scenarios", implying a more defined set of situations.

Depending on the situation

Focuses on the influence of the situation on the outcome.

Contingent upon conditions

Emphasizes the conditional nature of the outcome based on specific requirements.

Subject to particular conditions

Highlights that the outcome is governed by specific, predefined criteria.

Given specific parameters

Uses "parameters" to suggest a more technical or defined set of conditions.

If certain criteria are met

Directly states the need for specific criteria to be satisfied.

Provided that certain conditions exist

Formal and emphasizes the provision of existing conditions.

In some instances

Refers to individual cases where something might occur.

When specific situations arise

Highlights the moment when a specific set of conditions becomes relevant.

Conditional on the context

The outcome is conditioned and depends on the context where something happens.

FAQs

How can I use "under certain circumstances" in a sentence?

You can use "under certain circumstances" to introduce a condition that affects the main statement. For example, "Under certain circumstances, the policy may be waived" or "The policy may be waived, under certain circumstances".

What's a more formal way to say "under certain circumstances"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "contingent upon conditions" or "subject to particular conditions". These alternatives add a layer of formality suitable for legal or business contexts.

What are some alternatives to "under certain circumstances" for informal writing?

In informal writing, you might use phrases like "depending on the situation" or "in specific scenarios". These options are less formal and more conversational.

Is it redundant to use "under certain circumstances" with other conditional phrases?

Using "under certain circumstances" in conjunction with other conditional phrases (like "if" or "provided that") can sometimes be redundant. Ensure that adding the phrase clarifies rather than complicates the condition being expressed. For example: Instead of saying "If the project fails under certain circumstances", simply say "If the project fails" or use "Under certain circumstances the project may fail".