if it approves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it approves" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to the approval of a proposal, plan, or request by an authority or governing body. Example: "The project will proceed if it approves the budget allocation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

The report to the committee said the HLF may increase its financial commitment if it approves the project design but the council would also be required to increase its contribution.

BBC

Although Rolls has its hands full with the Phantom, and its plans to build a convertible, don't be surprised if it approves this model for production as well.

Forbes

If it approves the increases, they will take effect early next year.

The New York Times

Shame on West Virginia if it approves a bill that allows hunting education classes in public schools to become law.

The New York Times

If it approves it, the 45-member Nuclear Suppliers Group will be asked to waive its rules on nuclear trading for India.

The Economist

An especially controversial aspect of the amendment allows the Legislature to establish caps on other types of lawsuits if it approves them by a three-fifths majority.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Well, he admits, it would be easier for the FSA to explain itself to taxpayers and politicians if it approved a sale to a Japanese bank.

The Economist

Greenpeace claims that the commission would break the law if it approved the crop anyway.

Science Magazine

Additionally, Burbank voters would have to approve the replacement terminal if it is approved by the city council.

Los Angeles Times

"Apligraf is still waiting for approval and faces stiff competition even if it is approved," warns Kopin.

Forbes

If it is approved, that could be challenged too.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if it approves", ensure the subject performing the approval is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "if the committee approves" instead of just "if it approves".

Common error

Avoid using "if it approves" without a clear antecedent for "it". Readers might not understand what entity is doing the approving. Always specify the entity, such as "if the board approves" or "if the council approves".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it approves" functions as a conditional clause, setting a condition for a particular outcome. As supported by Ludwig, it expresses a dependency where the action described in the main clause is contingent upon a specific entity granting its approval. It introduces a scenario that must occur for the subsequent action to take place.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

14%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if it approves" is a grammatically sound conditional clause used to express contingency, according to Ludwig. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with a neutral tone suitable for professional communication. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, clarity is crucial; ensure the "it" refers to is explicitly defined. Consider using synonyms like "if it consents" or "if it authorizes" for more formal settings. While "if it approves" is a valid phrase, remember to ensure clarity in writing by always specifying who or what is doing the approving, and adjust formality as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it consents

Replaces "approves" with a more formal term, suggesting a formal agreement or permission.

if it authorizes

Implies a formal granting of power or right to proceed.

if it sanctions

Suggests official permission or endorsement, often in the context of rules or regulations.

if it endorses

Emphasizes public support or recommendation.

if it ratifies

Implies formal confirmation, often of a treaty or agreement.

if it accepts

A more general term, indicating agreement or willingness to receive something.

if it passes

Commonly used in the context of legislation or proposals, referring to successful voting.

if it gives the green light

An idiomatic expression meaning to grant permission for a project to proceed.

assuming it approves

Expresses a condition based on a future approval.

provided that it approves

Highlights the approval as a necessary condition for something else to happen.

FAQs

How can I use "if it approves" in a sentence?

You can use "if it approves" to introduce a conditional clause, such as: "The project will proceed "if it approves" the budget allocation."

What are some alternatives to saying "if it approves"?

Alternatives include "if it consents", "if it authorizes", or "if it passes" depending on the context.

Is "if it approves" formal or informal?

"If it approves" is generally neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives like "if it authorizes" might be preferred in official documents.

What's the difference between "if it approves" and "if it is approved"?

"If it approves" indicates an active voice where 'it' is the subject performing the action of approving. "If it is approved" uses a passive voice, indicating that 'it' is receiving the action of being approved by someone or something else.