if it matches

USAGE SUMMARY

"if it matches" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are comparing one thing to another and looking for similarities or similarities. For example, "I'm going to compare these two paintings to see if it matches."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

If it matches the scale and ambition of Australia's massive abuse investigation, it will cost at least £100m.

BBC

Authorities are reportedly doing tests on the drug found in Lebanon to see if it matches the one in Vermont.

Vice

He wouldn't say the cost of the device, but if it matches its predecessor ($199), it could reach many people worldwide.

MIT Technology Review

These specifiers are all strung together in an AND fashion, so a result will only appear if it matches all of the criteria users have given.

Database : the journal of biological databases and curation

No matter the field, start by assessing the current landscape, and determine if it matches your expectations.

Forbes

Then, for each record, we match the information to the geographical area's name of interest; if it matches, we count the record and we consider its phylum.

BioMed Research International

If it matches, then it was worth doing instantiation.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

That fund may be worth it if it matches your long-term financial needs.

Huffington Post

If it matches, then it's your colour!

WikiHow

If it matches with the information on your account, you'll be given your PUK code.

WikiHow

If it matches something in the database, they've got an answer.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about comparisons, ensure the items being compared are clearly defined before using "if it matches".

Common error

Avoid using "if it matches" repeatedly in long, complex sentences. Break down the sentence for clarity or use synonyms like "aligns" or "corresponds".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it matches" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a condition that must be met for a certain outcome or action to occur. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which identifies it as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if it matches" is a versatile and grammatically sound conditional phrase widely used across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. As our analysis shows, it functions primarily to introduce a condition for comparison or evaluation, maintaining a neutral register that suits both formal and informal communication. Common contexts include news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by avoiding overuse in complex sentences and considering synonyms like "aligns" or "corresponds" for a more precise meaning. The provided examples and guidance offer a solid foundation for effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it aligns

Focuses on the idea of agreement or correspondence.

if it corresponds

Emphasizes a direct relationship or equivalence.

if it conforms

Highlights adherence to a standard or requirement.

if it fits

Suggests suitability or compatibility for a specific purpose.

in the event that it matches

Adds a formal tone, indicating a contingency.

assuming it matches

Implies a presupposition or condition to be met.

provided it matches

Similar to assuming, but with a slightly stronger emphasis on the condition.

on the condition that it matches

Expresses a clear and explicit requirement.

should it match

Uses a more formal and less common phrasing.

if there is a match

Rephrases to focus on the existence of a matching element.

FAQs

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

Use "if it matches" to indicate a conditional relationship, such as "The program will execute the code "if it matches" the specified criteria".

What is a good alternative to "if it matches"?

Alternatives include "if it aligns", "if it corresponds", or "if it fits", depending on the specific context.

Is "if it matches up" grammatically correct compared to "if it matches"?

"If it matches" is generally more concise and appropriate. "If it matches up" can be used, but it sometimes implies a more casual or informal tone. Using "if it matches" is more direct.

When is it better to use "if it corresponds" instead of "if it matches"?

Use "if it corresponds" when you want to emphasize a direct relationship or equivalence between two things. "If it matches" is a more general term for similarity.