depending on which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "depending on which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a choice or condition that varies based on specific options or criteria. Example: "The outcome of the project will vary depending on which method we choose to implement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He has redefined the powers of each role, depending on which one he holds.

The New Yorker

JRB: The birth was even more difficult depending on which one gave birth to it.

Huffington Post

Depending on which scene one views first, the emotional tenor varies.

Huffington Post

As one might expect, the numbers differ greatly depending on which definition is used.

The New York Times

Or didn't, depending on which way you think about it.

The Guardian - Travel

Depending on which command is received the program acts accordingly.

Cornell University

He is dung depending on which story you listen to.

Yale University

Instructions are unique depending on which state is pressed.

Cornell University

Depending on which rationale you believe, the remedy differs.

The New York Times

"It's long, depending on which tee is used," he added.

The New York Times - Sports

Symptoms vary depending on which organ or organs are affected.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "depending on which", ensure the options being referred to are clearly defined in the context to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The severity of the penalty will vary, depending on which regulation was violated".

Common error

Avoid using "depending on which" when the options are not explicitly stated or easily inferred by the reader. Instead, provide a clear list or description of the possible choices. For example, instead of saying "Results may vary, depending on which", specify "Results may vary, depending on which browser you use: Chrome, Firefox, or Safari".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "depending on which" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a dependent clause. It indicates that the outcome or characteristic being described is contingent upon the selection from a specific set of options. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "depending on which" is a versatile phrase used to indicate conditionality and variation, with its usage being grammatically correct as stated by Ludwig AI. It is commonly found in news and media, academia, and science, making it suitable for various writing styles. To ensure clarity, always explicitly define the options or choices that the outcome depends upon. Consider using alternatives like "based on which" or "contingent upon which" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

depending upon which

Using "upon" instead of "on" adds a slightly more formal tone.

dependent on which

This option directly mirrors the meaning with a slight change in wording.

based on which

This phrase emphasizes the foundation or reason for the variation.

contingent upon which

This alternative uses more formal vocabulary to indicate conditionality.

conditional on which

Directly states the conditional nature of the relationship.

subject to which

Highlights that the outcome is controlled or influenced by the choice.

according to which

Specifies that the outcome varies based on different accounts or perspectives.

predicated on which

Emphasizes the outcome is founded or established on a particular choice.

as a function of which

Implies a mathematical or logical relationship where the outcome is determined by the variable.

in accordance with which

Similar to "according to which" but more formal and emphasizes compliance.

FAQs

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

Use "depending on which" to indicate that an outcome or characteristic varies based on the selection of one item from a set of options. For example, "The price of the service varies, depending on which package you choose".

What phrases are similar to "depending on which"?

Alternatives to "depending on which" include "based on which", "conditional on which", or "contingent upon which", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it more formal to say "depending upon which" instead of "depending on which"?

Yes, "depending upon which" is considered slightly more formal than "depending on which", but both are grammatically correct and widely accepted.

When should I avoid using "depending on which"?

Avoid using "depending on which" if the options being referenced are not clearly defined or easily understood from the context. Ensure clarity by explicitly stating the alternatives.