if it exists

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it exists" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to express the idea that something might be true, but the idea hasn't been proven yet. For example, "Some say that a cure for cancer exists, but no one has been able to prove it yet, if it exists at all."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Or, if it exists, of its worth.

The Guardian - Books

If it exists, return its fp, otherwise return the original file path.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Overwrite new_asol.fits, if it exists.

Harvard University

Remove output if it exists?

Harvard University

Clobber output if it exists?

Harvard University

If it exists at all.

The Washington Post

Clobber output file if it exists?

Harvard University

Overwrite the output file if it exists?

Harvard University

Of course, only if it exists.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Why is there "if it exists" in this problem?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

*-* The covariance matrix is also output if it exists.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if it exists" to introduce a degree of uncertainty or skepticism about the existence of something, especially when exploring hypothetical scenarios or discussing abstract concepts.

Common error

Avoid using "if it exists" when the existence of the subject is already established or highly probable. Redundant use can make your writing sound hesitant or unsure when confidence is warranted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it exists" functions as a conditional clause, introducing uncertainty about the existence of a subject. It modifies the main clause by setting a condition that must be met for the main clause to be valid. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various hypothetical scenarios and discussions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

35%

News & Media

32%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if it exists" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed conditional phrase used to express uncertainty about the existence of something. As verified by Ludwig, it functions as a conditional clause and is versatile enough for use across academic, news, and scientific contexts. While alternatives like "assuming it exists" or "should it exist" offer similar meanings, "if it exists" maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. Remember to avoid redundancy by not using the phrase when existence is already implied. By considering the guidance provided, you can effectively use "if it exists" to convey the intended nuance of uncertainty in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assuming it exists

This alternative emphasizes the assumption of existence as a starting point for a discussion or argument.

in the event it exists

This alternative highlights the potential circumstance where something is confirmed to exist.

should it exist

This alternative presents a more formal or hypothetical condition of existence.

if it is indeed real

This alternative underscores the questioning of the reality of something.

on the condition that it exists

This alternative specifies existence as a necessary condition for something else to occur.

contingent on its existence

This alternative stresses that something is dependent on the prior existence of something else.

provided it's real

This alternative offers a slightly more informal way of expressing doubt about reality.

assuming its reality

This alternative focuses on proceeding with the assumption that something is factual.

should it be the case

This alternative shifts focus to possibility that current situation might be confirmed at a later time.

where it exists

This alternative is used to specify the location if something exists.

FAQs

How do I use "if it exists" in a sentence?

Use "if it exists" to express doubt or uncertainty about something's reality or presence. For instance, "The treasure map is rumored to lead to a hidden fortune, "if it exists"."

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

You can use alternatives like "assuming it exists", "in the event it exists", or "should it exist" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each carries a slightly different implication about the likelihood or conditionality.

Is it redundant to say "if it actually exists"?

While not strictly grammatically incorrect, adding "actually" to ""if it exists"" can be redundant. The "if" already implies a question of reality, so "actually" might be unnecessary unless you're emphasizing disbelief.

When should I avoid using "if it exists"?

Avoid using ""if it exists"" in contexts where the existence of something is a known fact or a given assumption. Using it in such cases can undermine your credibility or sound unnecessarily cautious.