if impracticable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if impracticable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing alternatives or conditions that apply when something is not feasible or possible to implement. Example: "We will proceed with the plan as outlined, if impracticable, we will consider other options."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It is conceivable even if impracticable that society should not have the practice of punishment, and it is possible given the pains of punishment that we might even rationally decide to do without it.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Such a sale is permissible only if partition is impracticable, if sale of the estate's interest would realize significantly less for the estate that sale of the property free of the interests of the co-owners, and if the benefit to the estate of such a sale outweighs any detriment to the co-owners.

Cornell University

The other is 'by comprehending in the society so many separate descriptions of citizens as will render an unjust combination of a majority of the whole very improbable, if not impracticable.' Again, it's not that he's against majorities — he says 'an unjust combination of a majority of the whole.' Well, that means there could be a just combination of a majority of the whole.

The New Yorker

Though desirable, such an idea would be very difficult to implement, if not impracticable, in many developing countries.

BMC Health Services Research

If this is impracticable, as it often is due to the need for sophisticated equipment, partner institutions are encouraged to make arrangements for students to return to the host institution, where the needed equipment is available.

Science Magazine

Experimental organisms (e.g., genetically modified mice) must also be made available, but if this is impracticable, the means to reproduce them (e.g., ES lines, transgenic constructs) must be provided.

Cancer Medicine

If this is impracticable an aquarium air pump and stone rated for the size of your nutrient reservoir may be required.

WikiHow

This is generally the case if prompt delivery becomes impracticable because of an unforeseeable and unavoidable obstacle.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If it is physically impracticable for them all to possess or to use the thing, they must agree among themselves who will have possession in fact, since all have possession in law.

Britannica

Only if this is impossible or impracticable may he sue the buyer.

Britannica

A texturing process by hand which takes into account all the urban elements of a city is an impracticable task, especially if quality results are required.

Information Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if impracticable", consider providing a specific alternative or a contingency plan to maintain clarity and ensure a smooth transition.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "impracticable" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler words like "impossible" or "unrealistic" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if impracticable" functions as a conditional conjunction, introducing a clause that specifies an alternative course of action or state of affairs when the primary one is not feasible. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

23%

News & Media

22%

Science

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

16%

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if impracticable" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that introduces a conditional clause indicating an alternative when the primary action or plan is not feasible. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While versatile, it is more suited to formal and scientific contexts due to its precise vocabulary. When using this phrase, ensure that you offer a viable alternative and avoid overusing it in casual settings. Simpler alternatives like "if impossible" or "if not feasible" may be more appropriate in informal conversations. Remember to consider the specific context and the intended audience to ensure clarity and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if unfeasible

Replaces 'impracticable' with a synonym, focusing on the lack of feasibility.

if not feasible

A common alternative, stressing the lack of practicality.

if impossible

Indicates a stronger degree of difficulty, implying something cannot be done.

if not viable

Emphasizes that the option is not sustainable or workable.

if not workable

Suggests the option is not capable of being successfully implemented.

if unrealistic

Highlights that the idea is detached from practical considerations.

should it be infeasible

A more formal phrasing of the same concept, suggesting a contingency.

if unattainable

Focuses on the inability to reach or achieve something.

if it proves unworkable

Emphasizes the idea of testing and then encountering problems.

in the event that it is not practical

A lengthier but more explicit explanation of the condition.

FAQs

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

You can use "if impracticable" to introduce a condition where the primary plan is not feasible. For example: "We will implement the first strategy, if impracticable, we'll move to the second one."

What's a simpler way to say "if impracticable"?

Alternatives include "if impossible", "if not feasible", or "if unrealistic", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "if impracticable" and "if impractical"?

While similar, "impracticable" often implies something is impossible to carry out, while "impractical" suggests something is unwise or inefficient. Consider the nuance when choosing between the two.

What are common mistakes to avoid when using "if impracticable"?

Avoid using "if impracticable" in overly informal contexts, as it can sound stilted. Also, ensure the condition following "if impracticable" is genuinely an alternative, and not just a restatement of the original problem.