if it is to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it is to be" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used in conditional sentences to express the idea that something will only happen if certain conditions are met. Here are a few examples: - If it is to be a successful project, we will need to work together as a team. - She will marry him if it is to be the last thing she does. - The promotion will be yours if it is to be offered to anyone. - If it is to be a secret, please don't tell anyone else. - If this relationship is to be salvaged, we need to have an honest conversation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If it is to be traded actively, its market value must be used.

The Economist

That too takes time if it is to be meaningful.

The Guardian

The UN force needs more troops from more countries if it is to be effective.

The Economist

"If it is to be a sail training vessel, controls are very stringent.

Independent

If it is to be successful it has to operate with society".

The New York Times - Arts

If it is to be believed — and why wouldn't it be?

The New Yorker

If it is to be slaked, Dr Post's innovation, or something like it, may prove necessary.

The Economist

If it is to be a dialogue scene, then he will make it one.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Critics claim HS2 needs to deliver that number if it is to be viable.

The Guardian

And a surge, if it is to be successful, will need to be an Afghan surge.

The New York Times

Diversity, if it is to be more than a buzz-word, needs to be fundamentally plural.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if it is to be", ensure that the subsequent clause clearly outlines the necessary condition or action required for the desired outcome. This provides clarity and strengthens the conditional statement.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive voice following "if it is to be". Opt for active voice constructions where possible to make the sentence more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "If it is to be understood, the report must be read carefully", try "If it is to be understood, readers must examine the report carefully".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it is to be" functions as an introductory conditional clause. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage in creating hypothetical scenarios or outlining necessary conditions for a specific outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if it is to be" is a grammatically sound and frequently used conditional clause. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility across diverse contexts, primarily appearing in news media and scientific publications. When employing "if it is to be", clarity is paramount; ensure the condition and its outcome are explicitly linked for maximum impact. While correct, aim for balance and avoid overuse. Alternatives like "if it should happen" or "provided that it is" can help diversify your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it should happen

Emphasizes a possibility or contingency; suggests a less certain outcome.

if it's going to be

Implies a future intention or plan; focuses on the unfolding of events.

should it be

A more formal or literary way of expressing a conditional situation; inverts the word order.

in the event that it is

A more formal and cautious way of introducing a conditional clause.

assuming it is

Introduces a condition based on an assumption.

provided that it is

Indicates a necessary condition for something to occur.

on the condition that it is

Similar to 'provided that', but emphasizes the stipulation.

if it were to be

Presents a more hypothetical or unlikely scenario.

given that it is

Introduces a condition based on a known or accepted fact.

supposing it is

Suggests a hypothetical situation for consideration.

FAQs

How do I use "if it is to be" in a sentence?

Use "if it is to be" to introduce a condition that must be met for a certain outcome to occur. For example, "If it is to be successful, the project needs careful planning."

What are some alternatives to "if it is to be"?

Alternatives include "if it should happen", "if it's going to be", or "provided that it is", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "if it is to be"?

While grammatically correct, overuse of "if it is to be" can make your writing sound overly formal or stilted. Consider using a simpler conditional structure if appropriate.

What is the difference between "if it is to be" and "if it was to be"?

"If it is to be" generally refers to a future condition or intention, whereas "if it was to be" often refers to a hypothetical or past situation.