depending on context

USAGE SUMMARY

"depending on context" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express that the meaning of something can change or vary depending on the situation in which it is used. For example: "Meanings of some words can vary depending on context."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Depending on context, the notion that we can never really know one another — sigh sadly, please — can be perceived as a profound truth or a familiar cliché.

The New York Times

And, depending on context, it may also serve as a tool for the privileging of one race over another, one religion over another, etc.

Huffington Post

Depending on context, different devices make jobs easier or harder.

The Guardian - Tech

I'm ok with tasteless jokes, depending on context.

The New Yorker

Abbreviations are OK depending on context and should be capitalized.

Cornell University

Those preferences, Mr. Mundie added, could vary depending on context.

The New York Times

Depending on context they can serve various functions.

Procedia Engineering

But the exact meaning varies greatly depending on context and the language being spoken.

The New York Times

Solutions must be multifaceted, vary depending on context, culture, history and legal codes.

The Guardian - Opinion

We each have multiple selves, which emerge or don't depending on context.

The New York Times

In professional writing, the meaning of "unconscious" varies somewhat depending on context.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "depending on context" to acknowledge that the meaning or interpretation of something can change based on the surrounding circumstances, adding nuance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid overusing "depending on context" without providing specific examples or clarifications. Ensure the reader understands which aspects of the context are relevant to the change in meaning or interpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "depending on context" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, adjective, or entire clause. It introduces a condition or qualification, indicating that the truth or applicability of a statement varies based on the surrounding circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "depending on context" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to express that the meaning, interpretation, or applicability of something varies based on the surrounding circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse fields like News & Media, Science, and Academia. When using this phrase, ensure the context is either obvious or explicitly stated to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "contingent on the situation" or "subject to the circumstances" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contingent on the situation

Replaces "context" with "situation", emphasizing the specific circumstances affecting the outcome.

subject to the circumstances

Highlights that the outcome is conditional and influenced by external factors.

conditional on the setting

Focuses on the environment or background affecting the interpretation or outcome.

relative to the situation

Indicates that the meaning or relevance changes based on the specific scenario.

as the case may be

Suggests that the action or outcome varies according to the prevailing conditions.

varying with the framework

Emphasizes that the result changes based on the established structure or system.

in accordance with the situation

Highlights that the action is adapted to fit the specific circumstances.

dependent on the scenario

Indicates that the result or interpretation relies on the presented situation.

pursuant to the conditions

Suggests compliance with a set of specified requirements or circumstances.

as dictated by the situation

Implies that the circumstances directly control or determine the outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "depending on context" in a sentence?

Use "depending on context" to indicate that a statement or action is conditional. For example: The rules may vary "depending on context".

What are some alternatives to "depending on context"?

You can use alternatives such as "contingent on the situation", "subject to the circumstances", or "conditional on the setting", "relative to the situation" "as the case may be" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify the context when using "depending on context"?

While not always mandatory, specifying the relevant context provides clarity and prevents misinterpretations. If the context is not immediately obvious, it's best to provide additional details.

What's the difference between "depending on context" and "it depends"?

"Depending on context" is more formal and precise, highlighting the role of specific circumstances. "It depends" is more general and informal, simply indicating variability without specifying the influencing factors.