if it comes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it comes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a condition or possibility related to an event or situation that may occur in the future. Example: "I will consider your proposal if it comes to my attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"If it comes, it comes," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

If it comes back, it is yours.

The New York Times

And if it comes to an end?

The Guardian

But not if it comes through touch.

Independent

If it comes back, so will Hughes.

The New York Times - Sports

What if it comes back?

The Guardian

If it comes out, great.

The New York Times - Sports

If it comes at all".

The New York Times - Magazine

Also dying, if it comes to that.

The Guardian - Books

If it comes back, it comes back.

The Guardian - Sport

What will happen if it comes along?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if it comes" to introduce a condition that must be met for a particular outcome to occur. It's particularly useful when discussing future possibilities or uncertain events.

Common error

Avoid using "if it comes" when the outcome is already certain or guaranteed. The phrase implies uncertainty, so using it in situations where the result is predetermined can make your writing sound awkward or illogical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it comes" functions as a conditional conjunction, introducing a subordinate clause that expresses a condition. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. The phrase sets up a hypothetical scenario, indicating that the outcome of the main clause depends on whether the condition is met.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if it comes" functions as a conditional conjunction, commonly used to introduce a hypothetical event or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, including News & Media and Wiki sources. The phrase conveys contingency and uncertainty, making it suitable for discussing future possibilities. When writing, ensure that the condition introduced by "if it comes" aligns with the uncertainty of the situation. For alternatives, consider phrases like "should it happen" or "in the event that it arrives" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should it happen

Emphasizes the hypothetical occurrence of an event.

if it occurs

A more formal way of saying "if it comes", focusing on the event taking place.

should it arise

Suggests a situation or issue coming into existence.

in the event that it arrives

Highlights the arrival or appearance of something as a condition.

assuming it materializes

Focuses on the realization or tangible manifestation of something.

if it transpires

Implies that something becomes known or proves to be the case.

when it arrives

Focuses on the timing of something's arrival.

if it should present itself

Highlights the opportunity or situation becoming available.

in case it appears

Focuses on the visual or evident presence of something.

on the off chance it turns up

Suggests a small possibility of something becoming available.

FAQs

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

Use "if it comes" to introduce a conditional clause, indicating something that might happen in the future. For example, "If it comes to a split primary, he's not worried" shows a possible scenario and the resulting reaction.

What can I say instead of "if it comes"?

You can use alternatives like "should it happen", "if it occurs", or "in the event that it arrives" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "if it comes"?

"If it comes" is appropriate when discussing a future event that is uncertain. For example, "If it comes our way we'll embrace it" suggests openness to an opportunity that may or may not happen.

What's the difference between "if it comes" and "when it comes"?

"If it comes" implies uncertainty, while "when it comes" suggests that the event is more likely or certain to happen. Use "if" to express a condition and "when" to refer to an expected time.