Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
if approved
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "if approved" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to indicate a condition or requirement that must be met before something can happen. It can also be used to express uncertainty or possibility. Example: "The loan will be granted if approved by the bank's loan committee."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
If approved, construction will begin in 2020.
News & Media
If approved, the treatment could restore vision.
Science & Research
If approved, the project could be completed in 10 years.
News & Media
The new deal, if approved, will make that process unnecessary.
News & Media
If approved by regulators, the plant will open in 2010.
News & Media
If approved, it would move to the Senate for consideration.
News & Media
If approved, the guild's membership will vote on final ratification.
News & Media
If approved, the project could be completed by late 2016.
News & Media
If approved, it is scheduled to open in 2010.
News & Media
If approved, the increases would be the first since 1991.
News & Media
If approved, removal of the dams would begin in 2020.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Specify the timeline for the approval process if possible. This provides a clearer expectation for when the action or decision will be finalized.
Common error
A common mistake is not clearly stating who needs to approve something. Always specify the entity responsible for approval to avoid confusion. For instance, instead of "The project will proceed if approved", write "The project will proceed if approved by the board of directors".
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "if approved" typically functions as an adverbial clause of condition, modifying the main clause by setting a condition for its occurrence. This is supported by examples Ludwig provides, which showcase how "if approved" sets a prerequisite for the action described in the main clause.
Frequent in
News & Media
80%
Science
10%
Formal & Business
5%
Less common in
Academia
3%
Encyclopedias
1%
Wiki
1%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "if approved" functions as a versatile conditional phrase indicating that an action or decision hinges on obtaining approval. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically sound and widely used across various domains, including news, science, and business. While the phrase is generally neutral, it is essential to specify who or what needs to grant the approval to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "subject to approval" or "pending approval" can be used, depending on the context. By understanding its function and context, you can effectively incorporate "if approved" into your writing.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
subject to approval
Emphasizes the dependence on a future approval, often in formal settings.
conditional upon approval
Highlights that the action or outcome is contingent on the approval being granted.
pending approval
Indicates the approval process is ongoing and the final decision is yet to be made.
once authorized
Focuses on the point in time when authorization is received, shifting the emphasis slightly.
given the green light
A more informal way of saying approved, often used in business or project management contexts.
if ratified
Specifically used when referring to the formal ratification of a treaty or agreement.
assuming it passes
Used in the context of passing the law or any similar situation.
should it be endorsed
Replaces "approved" with a more formal "endorsed", implying a higher level of support.
contingent on acceptance
Highlights the acceptance aspect of the request or plan
if sanctioned
Implies approval from an authority or governing body, often in a legal or regulatory context.
FAQs
How can I use "if approved" in a sentence?
You can use "if approved" to indicate that an action or event is conditional on receiving approval. For example, "The budget will be implemented "if approved" by the finance committee."
What are some alternatives to "if approved"?
Alternatives include phrases like "subject to approval", "pending approval", or "conditional upon approval". The choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.
Is it grammatically correct to say "if approved"?
Yes, it is grammatically correct. "If approved" functions as a conditional clause, indicating that something will happen only if a certain condition (approval) is met. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples of its use.
What's the difference between "if approved" and "once approved"?
"If approved" indicates a condition that must be met before something can happen, while "once approved" indicates that something will happen after the approval has been granted. The former expresses a condition, the latter a sequence of events.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested