if doable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if doable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the possibility or feasibility of an action or request. Example: "Please let me know if doable, so I can plan accordingly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In 1993, when Mr. Borucki and his collaborators proposed building a satellite to do such measurements, NASA said, "If doable, it's fabulous," recalled David Koch of the University of Wisconsin, Mr. Borucki's longtime collaborator.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

With a monthly budget of up to $1,300, a nice rental in Manhattan was unlikely, if perfectly doable in Queens.

The New York Times

Diplomats from Iran and the six major powers at the talks (the P5+1) are talking as if this doable.

The Guardian

We'll see if its doable for us".

Huffington Post

"But if you know basic carpentry, it's very doable if you're careful".

The New York Times

Then again, it - or more, if not all of it - might be doable if you had a maid.

Huffington Post

That's doable, if it's a national priority, if we're willing to create the equivalent of a nationwide amber alert.

The New York Times

If it's doable".

The New York Times - Sports

Let's see if that's doable".

The Guardian

We have no idea if it's doable".

The Guardian - Sport

Would a deal be doable if the worst came to the worst?

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if doable" when you want to express a condition based on the practicality or feasibility of an action. It is a concise way to introduce a contingency.

Common error

Avoid using "if doable" in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable in many contexts, more formal alternatives like "if feasible" or "if achievable" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if doable" functions as a conditional clause, setting a requirement for something to proceed or be considered. Ludwig highlights its use in various contexts, emphasizing its role in expressing contingency.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

18%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if doable" serves as a conditional clause expressing that an action depends on its practicality. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and sees common usage, particularly in news and media. While acceptable in various contexts, it's important to consider formality and opt for alternatives like "if feasible" or "if achievable" in highly professional or academic settings. Keep in mind, based on frequency, that "if doable" can work in News & Media contexts but avoid in Formal & Business writings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if achievable

Replaces 'doable' with a synonym emphasizing the potential for accomplishment.

if feasible

Substitutes 'doable' with a term highlighting practicality and suitability.

if possible

Uses a more general term for something that can be done.

assuming it's practical

Adds a condition related to the practical nature of the task or plan.

provided it is viable

Emphasizes the condition that something must be capable of working successfully.

if it can be realized

Highlights the potential for something to become a reality.

contingent on its workability

Focuses on the condition that something's success depends on its ability to work.

dependent on its feasibility

Specifies that something's outcome relies on how easily or conveniently it can be done.

if it's within the realm of possibility

Highlights that something is only doable if it is actually possible.

subject to its attainability

Implies that the decision relies on whether it can be realistically reached.

FAQs

What does "if doable" mean?

The phrase "if doable" means 'if it is possible to do' or 'if it is feasible'. It's a way of expressing a condition based on the practicality of an action or plan.

What are some alternatives to "if doable"?

Some alternatives to "if doable" include "if possible", "if feasible", or "if achievable". The best choice depends on the specific context and level of formality required.

Is "if doable" appropriate for formal writing?

While "if doable" is generally acceptable, it's often better to use more formal alternatives such as "if feasible" or "if practical" in academic or professional contexts.

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

You can use "if doable" to set a condition: "Let me know "if doable", so I can adjust the schedule." It implies that your plans are contingent on whether something is practical to accomplish.