circumstances permitting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "circumstances permitting" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something will happen only if the conditions allow it. Example: "We will hold the outdoor event next Saturday, circumstances permitting."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Life circumstances permitting, you're not obligated to jump at the first thing that comes up.

Stanford University

Unauthorized electronic surveillance without a warrant or circumstances permitting a warrentless search violates the 4th Amendment.

Harvard University

Similarly, the only circumstances permitting a husband to interrupt a spouse's enjoyment of gritty Scandinavian crime drama is if the game should go to penalties.

The Guardian - Sport

Another proposal to be presented as an amendment to the compromise resolution is more specific about the circumstances permitting Mr. Bush to use force.

The New York Times

Kentucky argues that one of the most well-established exigent circumstances permitting warrantless entry into a private residence is when police reasonably believe that evidence is being destroyed.

Cornell University

It still allows for parents to use force but restricts the circumstances permitting it, and has been widely read as a disincentive for using smacking as a disciplinary tool.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

He said that his dream is to bring the institute to Damascus, if political circumstances permit.

The New Yorker

Many Bulgarians expected Tsar Boris to break with the German alliance when circumstances permitted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As soon as circumstances permitted, Amadeus abdicated gracefully and returned to Italy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Old Trafford regulars should enjoy his penchant for marauding down the flank when circumstances permit.

The Guardian - Sport

Nicaraguan president Daniel Ortega says he could accept Snowden's asylum request "if circumstances permit".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "circumstances permitting" to add a note of caution or conditionality to a plan or statement, acknowledging that external factors might influence the outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "circumstances permitting" too frequently in formal documents; it can make your writing sound hedging. Opt for stronger, more direct language when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "circumstances permitting" functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause by indicating a condition upon which the action or event depends. Ludwig provides many examples in which it indicates the terms to use another action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "circumstances permitting" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey contingency. As Ludwig highlights, it is useful across various types of writing, from academic to news media. While versatile, it is essential to consider its frequency in formal writing, as overuse can diminish impact. Alternative phrases such as "if conditions allow" or "as circumstances allow" offer similar meanings and could be employed for better writing conciseness. All this said, Ludwig AI indicates a prevalent usage across a wide range of reliable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as circumstances allow

Uses "as" to indicate a parallel conditionality.

if conditions allow

Focuses on the allowance of external factors.

if the situation permits

More formal and explicitly states "the situation".

situation allowing

Highlights the overall situation as the factor.

depending on the situation

Highlights reliance on the specifics of the case.

weather permitting

Specifically refers to weather as the determining condition.

contingent on the circumstances

Formal and emphasizes contingency.

provided that conditions are favorable

More emphatic about favorable conditions.

subject to suitable conditions

Emphasizes suitability and external rule.

assuming the context is right

Highlights the importance of the context.

FAQs

How can I use "circumstances permitting" in a sentence?

You can use "circumstances permitting" to express that an action or event will occur only if the current conditions allow it. For example, "We will proceed with the outdoor concert, "circumstances permitting"".

What is a more formal alternative to "circumstances permitting"?

A more formal alternative to "circumstances permitting" is "contingent on the circumstances". This phrase is suitable for professional or academic writing.

Which is correct: "circumstances permitting" or "circumstance permitting"?

"Circumstances permitting" is the correct phrase. "Circumstance" is singular, and you are referring to conditions in general, so the plural form is appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use "circumstances permitting"?

It's appropriate when you want to indicate that an event or plan is dependent on external conditions being favorable. You're acknowledging the potential for changes or obstacles.