if asked

USAGE SUMMARY

"if asked" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a conjunction used to introduce a condition or hypothesis. For example: I would be obliged to assist if asked.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Now, if asked, he "rules nothing out".

The Economist

I will defend the country if asked".

The New York Times - Sports

And nor would my children if asked.

The Guardian - Opinion

It also requires his testimony if asked.

The New York Times - Sports

Serve her, if asked," Mr. Huntsman said.

The New York Times

NASA said it would help, if asked.

The New York Times - Science

(The Americans will help only if asked).

The New York Times

Or if asked, unanswered.

The New York Times

"I'll consult, if asked...

The New York Times - Books

They will help if asked.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Folding Table-if asked to bring.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if asked" to clearly state a conditional action or response. Ensure the context makes it clear who is doing the asking and who is responding.

Common error

Avoid using "if asked" in situations where the condition is already implied. Make sure the sentence clearly conveys what happens only when the question is posed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if asked" typically functions as an adverbial clause of condition, modifying the main clause by setting a condition that must be met for the action in the main clause to occur. Ludwig AI validates its frequent use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if asked" is a grammatically correct and very common conjunction phrase used to introduce a conditional action or response. Ludwig AI confirms its prevalence across various contexts, including news, wikis, and scientific articles. While it maintains a generally neutral register, more formal alternatives like "should the question arise" or "upon being prompted" may be preferable in specific professional or academic settings. Remember to ensure clarity in your sentences by explicitly stating who is doing the asking and who is responding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when questioned

A straightforward synonym, replacing "if asked" with a direct alternative.

assuming I am asked

Directly states the assumption of being asked.

upon being prompted

Highlights that an instigation is needed.

if I receive a request

Focuses on receiving a formal request.

should the question arise

Rephrases the condition in a more formal and slightly indirect way.

should they inquire

A more formal and polite way to express the condition.

in the event of being queried

A formal alternative, emphasizing the act of being questioned.

if the opportunity presents itself

Focuses on the opportunity to answer, rather than a direct question.

if the need arises

Similar to "if the situation calls for it" but more general.

if the situation calls for it

Emphasizes the situational context for response.

FAQs

How can I use "if asked" in a sentence?

You can use "if asked" to introduce a condition under which something will happen. For instance, "I will provide more details "if asked"" indicates that you will only provide details if someone asks you to do so.

What are some alternatives to "if asked"?

Alternatives include "when questioned", "upon being prompted", or "should the question arise", depending on the context and desired formality.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "if asked"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Starting a sentence with "if asked" creates a conditional clause that sets the stage for the main clause. Example: "If asked, I will provide additional information."

What's the difference between "if asked" and "when asked"?

"If asked" implies a condition where the action depends on the question being posed. "When asked" suggests that the question is expected or likely to be asked, indicating a higher probability of the event occurring.