if compared to

USAGE SUMMARY

"if compared to" is a perfectly grammatical and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to draw a contrast between two different things or ideas. For example, "If compared to other cities, London has a much higher cost of living."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

SMA1.20 shows mechanical properties comparable to the reference mixture and higher if compared to SMA0.75.

Construction and Building Materials

Such foreign highbrow imports were suspect, especially if compared to the native vigour of the cakewalk, vaudeville and tap.

The Guardian - Film

But I knew, and they knew, that my playing didn't merit this attention if compared to their playing.

The Guardian - Music

Lastly wooden structures have an excellent performance in case of earthquake if compared to traditional structures.

Energy Procedia

This performance makes the device nominally competitive if compared to other similar solid-state converters.

Diamond and Related Materials

The sinter activities of both nanocrystalline materials were strongly enhanced if compared to microcrystalline ceria.

Acta Materialia

As a consequence, the computational effort is lower, if compared to the corresponding global version.

Composites Part B: Engineering

This area is of a strategic nature if compared to the above-mentioned two areas.

Journal of Shipping and Trade

If compared to other businesses, cargo transportation in tramp mode has three distinctive characteristics.

Journal of Shipping and Trade

This appearance can be particularly appreciated if compared to Fig. 1b, which shows a normal participant.

European Radiology Experimental

These are fairly realistic patterns if compared to theoretical expectations of real-world discourses.

Computational Social Networks

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When starting a sentence with "If compared to", make sure the main clause that follows clearly states what is being compared and the result of the comparison for clarity.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by ensuring that what you are comparing directly follows "if compared to". A misplaced modifier can confuse the reader and distort the intended meaning. For instance, instead of saying 'If compared to older models, the new car's fuel efficiency is much better', clarify to 'If compared to older models, the new car has much better fuel efficiency'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if compared to" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a conditional comparison. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is acceptable in written English. It sets the stage for evaluating one subject in relation to another, often highlighting differences or similarities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

80%

News & Media

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if compared to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that introduces a conditional comparison. As Ludwig points out, it's useful for drawing contrasts and making evaluations. Predominantly found in scientific and formal writing, it maintains a neutral to formal register. Related phrases like "in contrast with" and "relative to" offer alternative ways to express comparison, while being mindful of misplaced modifiers helps maintain clarity. The frequency and diverse application of "if compared to" underscore its importance in analytical and descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in relation to

Highlights the connection or relationship between two items, often used to provide context.

in contrast with

Emphasizes the differences between two things being compared, providing a stronger sense of opposition.

by comparison with

A more emphatic way of introducing a comparison, highlighting the act of comparing itself.

relative to

Offers a shorter, more direct way to indicate comparison, focusing on proportion or degree.

assessed against

Focuses on evaluation and judgement based on a comparison to a certain benchmark.

measured against

Focuses on quantifiable comparison, often involving specific metrics or standards.

when juxtaposed with

Replaces "if compared to" with a more formal and literary term suggesting a side-by-side comparison.

when weighed against

Implies a careful consideration of the relative importance or value of two things.

versus

A concise way of indicating opposition or comparison, commonly used in formal contexts.

considering

A general alternative for introducing a factor for consideration, without explicit comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "if compared to" in a sentence?

"If compared to" is used to draw a comparison between two things. For example, "If compared to other smartphones, this model has a longer battery life."

What are some alternatives to "if compared to"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in contrast with", "relative to", or "by comparison with", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "compared to" or "if compared to"?

Both "compared to" and "if compared to" are grammatically correct. "If compared to" introduces a conditional element, suggesting a hypothetical comparison, while "compared to" is a more direct comparison.

When should I use "if compared to" instead of "when compared to"?

"If compared to" implies a conditional comparison, while "when compared to" suggests a more general, factual comparison. Use "if compared to" when the comparison is hypothetical or depends on certain conditions.