if need be

USAGE SUMMARY

"if need be" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate that certain action is available as a possibility if circumstances require it. For example, "The project must be completed on time; if need be, I am willing to work overtime to ensure that it is."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Part-time if need be?

The New Yorker

Borrow chairs from neighbors if need be.

The New York Times

Will send photo if need be.

The New Yorker

Burn, plunder and pillage, if need be.

The New York Times

"Yes, he could testify if need be.

The New Yorker

Or, if need be, their cellmates.

The Economist

If need be, use machine guns".

The New York Times

Buy it, if need be.

The New Yorker

If need be, we're prepared to die".

The Guardian - Opinion

Do this in batches if need be.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Months and years if need be.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if need be" to clearly indicate a contingency plan or a possible course of action that will only be taken if required by the circumstances. For example, "We'll proceed with the initial plan, but have a backup ready if need be."

Common error

Avoid using "if need be" excessively in formal documents or academic papers. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "if necessary" or "when required" to maintain a higher level of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if need be" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a conditional action. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, showing it's used to express a backup plan or contingency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if need be" is a versatile adverbial phrase that expresses a conditional necessity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence across varied sources, especially in News & Media and Wiki content. While generally neutral to informal, more formal options like "if necessary" or "when required" might be preferred in academic writing. Remember, the key is to use "if need be" to clearly articulate a contingency plan or an action contingent on specific circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if necessary

This is a direct synonym, offering the same meaning with fewer words.

if required

Similar to "if necessary", but emphasizes a more formal or obligatory condition.

when necessary

This variation highlights the timing aspect of the necessity.

should the need arise

A more formal and literary way of expressing the same condition.

if the situation demands

This phrase elaborates on the circumstances creating the necessity.

as a last resort

This emphasizes that the action is only taken when all other options have been exhausted.

if it comes to that

A more conversational way of indicating a possible, though perhaps undesirable, action.

if there's no other option

Similar to 'as a last resort', highlighting the lack of alternatives.

if circumstances require

A formal alternative, focusing on the role of external conditions.

only if absolutely necessary

This stresses the importance of avoiding the action unless it is unavoidable.

FAQs

What does "if need be" mean?

The phrase "if need be" means 'if necessary' or 'if the situation requires it'. It indicates that something will be done only if it becomes essential.

How can I use "if need be" in a sentence?

You can use "if need be" to express a contingency plan. For example, "We can take the train, but "drive if need be"." This means driving is an option if taking the train isn't feasible.

What's a more formal alternative to "if need be"?

More formal alternatives include "if necessary", "if required", or "when required". These options are suitable for professional or academic writing.

Is "if need be" interchangeable with "if needs be"?

While "if need be" is the more common and accepted form, "if needs be" is occasionally used but considered less standard. It's generally safer to stick with "if need be" to avoid potential grammatical scrutiny.