if matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if matters" is not commonly used in written English and may be unclear without context.
It could be used in a conditional statement where the importance of a situation is being questioned or considered. Example: "I will attend the meeting if matters require my presence."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

If matters deteriorate, Erdoğan will be blamed.

The Guardian

If matters dragged on, the judge would reconsider bail.

The Guardian

Troops stood by to restore order if matters got out of control.

The New York Times

You were kind enough to say that I might let you know if matters progress.

The Guardian

And, if matters cannot be resolved, the public still has the right of legal redress.

The Guardian

If matters do not improve soon, the visit could well be the last checkup before the final operation begins.

The New York Times

Chief Inspector of Prisons Nick Hardwick warned here were "real risks if matters were allowed to drift" at the prison.

Independent

TChief Inspector of Prisons Nick Hardwick warned there were "real risks if matters were allowed to drift" at the prison.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Matter is not truly continuous; if matter is subdivided into sufficiently small pieces, then indivisible components, or atoms, will appear.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Second, if matter is simply extension, then there is in its nature no source of activity.

SEP

If matter cannot explain (be identical to, give rise to) perception, then materialism is false.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider substituting "if matters" with more specific terms like "if the situation", "if circumstances", or "if things" to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "if matters" without clearly defining what "matters" refers to. This can lead to ambiguity and weaken your argument. Always specify the subject or situation influencing the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if matters" functions as a conditional clause introducer, setting up a scenario where the outcome depends on the state of specific, though often unspecified, circumstances. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage, particularly in news contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if matters" introduces a conditional clause where outcomes depend on unspecified circumstances. As Ludwig AI notes, while grammatically acceptable, it can benefit from being replaced by clearer, more specific alternatives in some contexts. It frequently appears in news and media, suggesting a neutral register. For clarity, ensure the context defines what "matters" refers to or consider alternatives like "if the situation" or "if things" for better precision. Using these tips will refine your writing and make it more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if things

Replaces "matters" with a more general term for circumstances.

if the situation

Specifies the "situation" as the condition being considered.

if conditions

Replaces "matters" with a more specific term, "conditions".

should circumstances

Offers a more formal and emphatic way to express a conditional situation.

depending on how things

Emphasizes the dependency of an outcome on the state of "things".

should the situation

Similar to "if the situation", but with a more formal tone.

in the event that things

Presents a more formal way of introducing a conditional event.

given the circumstances

Shifts the focus to considering the existing "circumstances".

were circumstances to

Introduces a hypothetical scenario with a formal tone.

contingent on developments

Highlights that the outcome is dependent on further "developments".

FAQs

How can I use "if matters" in a sentence?

The phrase "if matters" introduces a conditional clause, suggesting a dependency on certain conditions. For instance: "If matters improve, we will invest more resources."

What are some alternatives to "if matters"?

Alternatives include "if things", "if the situation", or "depending on how things". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "if matters improve" or "if the situation improves"?

While both are grammatically correct, "if the situation improves" is often clearer because it directly refers to the "situation", avoiding potential vagueness associated with "matters".

When is it appropriate to use "if matters" in formal writing?

While acceptable, "if matters" can sometimes be considered less precise in formal writing. Consider using more specific alternatives like "should circumstances" or "in the event that things" for enhanced clarity and formality.