if it drops

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it drops" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing the possibility of something falling or decreasing in value, quantity, or status. Example: "We need to monitor the stock closely and be prepared to sell if it drops."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Mr. McCormick says Oxygen has great opportunities if it drops its ideological "eat your peas" programming style.

The New York Times

Nichol Stephen, the Scots Lib Dem leader, has also said he could work with the SNP but only if it drops its commitment to an independence referendum.

The Guardian

If it drops its tail, you are considered a predator, so put it back in it's cage immediately.

WikiHow

For another, Goldman might end up offending its private equity co-investors — also important clients — if it drops out of the running while they want to press on.

The New York Times

If it drops, look out.

The New Yorker

If it drops it on Israel it's committing suicide.

The Economist

If it drops without encouragement, it is ready.

The Guardian - Books

If it drops in, Ashe cannot possibly get to it.

The New Yorker

If it drops a bit, as seems likely, revenues may still rise.

The Economist

But if it drops consistently to nine and less, it will get more demanding," he says.

The Guardian

The only way the relay would lose in Athens, he said, is if it drops the baton.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if it drops" in technical contexts, ensure that the 'it' is clearly defined and unambiguous. For example, specify "if the voltage drops" or "if the stock price drops".

Common error

Avoid using "if it drops" without a clear referent for 'it'. This can lead to confusion. Always specify what is potentially dropping to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it drops" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a scenario that may or may not occur. As Ludwig AI correctly indicates, it sets up a condition and its potential consequence. The phrase is used to express a dependency between a potential fall or decrease and another event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "if it drops" functions as a conditional clause used to set up a contingency based on a potential fall or decrease. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and broad applicability across various contexts. While grammatically sound and frequently used in news, media, wiki, and scientific domains, clarity is paramount to ensure the referent of 'it' is always explicit. Consider using alternatives like "if it declines" or "should it decrease" based on the desired level of formality. Always specify what is potentially dropping to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it declines

Replaces "drops" with a more formal synonym, implying a gradual decrease.

if it falls

Uses a more general term for downward movement, suitable for various contexts.

should it decrease

Introduces a more formal tone with "should", emphasizing a hypothetical decrease.

in the event it falls

Emphasizes a potential occurrence with a slightly more formal structure.

if it detaches

Specifically indicates a separation or release, useful for physical objects.

if it reduces

Focuses on a reduction in quantity or amount, suitable for measurable items.

if it diminishes

Implies a gradual fading or lessening, often used for abstract concepts.

if it lowers

Indicates a reduction in height or level, either literally or figuratively.

if it depreciates

Specifically refers to a decrease in value, commonly used in financial contexts.

assuming it descends

More formal substitute emphasizing the hypothetical descent.

FAQs

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

Use "if it drops" to describe a conditional scenario where something decreases, falls, or lessens. For example, "The company will adjust its strategy "if it drops" below the target revenue."

What are some alternatives to "if it drops"?

Alternatives include "if it declines", "if it falls", or "should it decrease", depending on the desired level of formality and the specific context.

Is it correct to say "if it drops down" instead of "if it drops"?

While "if it drops down" isn't grammatically incorrect, it can be redundant. "If it drops" is generally sufficient and clearer. Adding "down" doesn't usually add meaningful information.

What does "if it drops" imply in a financial context?

In finance, "if it drops" typically refers to a decrease in value, such as a stock price or investment portfolio value. For instance, "We'll sell the stock "if it drops" below a certain threshold."