as circumstances allow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as circumstances allow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that actions or decisions will be made based on the conditions or situations that are present at a given time. Example: "We will proceed with the project as circumstances allow, ensuring that we adapt to any changes that may arise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Both would pull American forces out of Iraq as soon as circumstances allow.

The Economist

The letters argued that the laws in these states do not bar such voters from voting in their former jurisdictions if their intent is to move back as soon as circumstances allow.

The New York Times

Sure enough this Winnie — who speaks in a largely uninterrupted, largely upbeat monologue about her plight, her daily ritual, her history and her relationship with the occasionally seen husband, Willie Tim Potterr, perfect), who inhabits a hole somewhere below her — manages to be as aerobic as circumstances allow, flexing and stretching and swiveling her upper torso.

The New York Times

It read: "The Central Bank of Cyprus and the government of Cyprus will review them each day, with a view to progressive lifting of the measures as soon as circumstances allow.

BBC

Against the odds, we seek to retain staff as circumstances allow and have reassigned personnel to new branches as opportunities have been found.

Huffington Post

Successful campaigns spend as much time planning their activities and developing procedures as circumstances allow -- they know that while anyone can send a mass email, getting the most out of an email list takes an actual strategy.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

In the end, Lincoln fulfilled most of the abolitionists' hopes — as circumstances allowed.

The New York Times

Imagine the ethical gymnastics as the reporter sought a trustworthy angle of vision, a perch where you could see as much of the action as circumstances allowed, trying always to keep the whole in mind so that you didn't exaggerate the parts.

The New York Times - Magazine

Families at Tyuonyi farmed as much as circumstance allowed, and also hunted game and collected edible plants.

The New York Times - Travel

"In my opinion, they have tried to address the problem as best as the circumstances allow.

The New York Times

We are looking forward to playing a competitive match in Cape Town as soon as local circumstances allow".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as circumstances allow", ensure the context clearly outlines what circumstances are being considered and how they might affect the planned action.

Common error

While "as circumstances allow" is useful, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Consider varying your phrasing with alternatives like "depending on the situation" or "if conditions permit".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as circumstances allow" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a condition under which an action is performed. It expresses that the action is contingent on prevailing conditions or situations. Ludwig confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as circumstances allow" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adverbial phrase that indicates actions will be taken based on prevailing conditions. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase signals flexibility and adaptability, appearing frequently in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. When writing, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid redundancy and ensure clarity about the circumstances being considered. Alternatives such as "depending on the situation" or "if conditions permit" can be used to vary your phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if conditions permit

Highlights that feasibility depends on external conditions being favorable.

as the situation dictates

This alternative underscores that actions will be determined by the demands of the situation.

depending on the situation

This alternative focuses on the conditional aspect, where actions are contingent on the existing situation.

as feasible

This alternative emphasizes the practicality and achievability of actions within existing constraints.

subject to conditions

This phrase highlights that certain actions are dependent on specific terms or conditions being met.

depending on developments

Actions will change with any developments or news on the matter.

contingent on events

Emphasizes the dependence of actions on the unfolding of specific events.

in accordance with the situation

The events or tasks will be done regarding the surrounding situation.

when the time is right

This alternative shifts the focus to timing, suggesting actions will occur when the conditions are favorable.

circumstances being what they are

Acknowledges the present conditions may influence the direction of the activity.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "as circumstances allow" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "subject to prevailing conditions", "contingent upon events", or "dependent on the situation". These alternatives offer a similar meaning while maintaining a more professional tone.

What is the difference between "if conditions permit" and "as circumstances allow"?

While both phrases convey a sense of conditionality, "if conditions permit" places more emphasis on external factors enabling the action, whereas "as circumstances allow" encompasses a broader range of internal and external influences.

Is it grammatically correct to say "as circumstance allows" (singular)?

No, the correct form is "as circumstances allow" (plural). "Circumstances" inherently refers to a set of conditions or factors, making the plural form grammatically appropriate. Using the singular "circumstance" would be incorrect in this phrase.

When should I use "as soon as circumstances allow"?

Use "as soon as circumstances allow" when you want to emphasize that something will be done promptly once the conditions are suitable. This phrasing suggests a sense of urgency or prioritization.