if it works

USAGE SUMMARY

"if it works" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a condition that you believe must be met in order for an idea or plan to succeed. For example: "We can try this new approach, but only if it works."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And if it works?

The Economist

What if it works?

Independent

But if it works, great.

The New Yorker

If it works, why switch?

The New York Times

If it works, we're staying.

The New York Times - Sports

"If it works, it's moral".

The New Yorker

If it works, continue.

Harvard University

If it works - wow!

The Guardian - Money

"Imagine if it works.

The Guardian - Sport

If it works, it can spread faster.

The New York Times

Graphene, if it works, offers a solution.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if it works" to introduce a conditional statement, ensure the subsequent clause clearly outlines the expected outcome or action. For instance, "If it works, we will expand the program".

Common error

Avoid using "if it works" as a standalone phrase without specifying the 'it' or the consequences. For example, instead of just saying "If it works", clarify what 'it' refers to and what will happen as a result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it works" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a scenario that needs to be validated or fulfilled for a subsequent action or outcome to occur. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if it works" is a common and grammatically correct conditional clause used to express that an outcome is dependent on the success or effectiveness of a particular action or plan. As shown by Ludwig, it's versatile and appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what 'it' refers to and the consequences of its success. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use, making it a reliable component of effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assuming it's effective

This alternative emphasizes the effectiveness of something as a condition.

provided it succeeds

This phrase focuses on the success of something as a necessary condition.

in the event it's successful

This alternative highlights the success of something as a possible event.

on the condition that it's fruitful

This phrase uses "fruitful" to indicate a positive and productive outcome.

should it prove useful

This alternative uses "prove useful" to emphasize the utility of something.

if it proves viable

This alternative emphasizes the viability of a plan or idea.

given that it's operative

This phrase focuses on whether something is in operation and functioning correctly.

presuming it's functional

This alternative underscores the functionality of something as a prerequisite.

contingent on its effectiveness

Highlights effectiveness as a contingency for further action or consideration.

depending on its working

This alternative directly refers to the action of "working", similar to the original phrase.

FAQs

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

You can use "if it works" to introduce a condition that needs to be met for a certain outcome to occur. For example, "If it works, we will invest more resources into the project".

What are some alternatives to "if it works"?

Some alternatives include "assuming it's effective", "provided it succeeds", or "in the event it's successful" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "if it works"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "if it works" as it introduces a conditional clause. For instance, "If it works, the team will receive a bonus".

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

"If it works" implies uncertainty about the outcome, while "when it works" suggests a higher degree of confidence or expectation that it will eventually be successful.