if possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'if possible' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking for something to be done and you are leaving it open to whoever is responsible to decide whether it is possible or not. For example: "Could you please send me a copy of the contract, if possible?".

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Serve warm if possible.

The New York Times

Keep cold if possible.

The New York Times - Health

Come if possible".

Wikipedia

Help yourself if possible.

WikiHow

Buy organic if possible.

WikiHow

Avoid fallout if possible.

WikiHow

Burn downhill if possible.

WikiHow

Stay indoors if possible.

WikiHow

Offer alternatives, if possible.

WikiHow

Play music, if possible.

WikiHow

Daily, if possible.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if possible" to soften requests or suggestions, making them less demanding and more considerate of the other party's constraints.

Common error

Avoid using "if possible" excessively in formal or professional writing where a more direct and assertive tone is preferred. Instead, consider rephrasing the sentence to clearly state expectations or requirements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if possible" acts as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a condition or contingency. As demonstrated in Ludwig's examples, it softens requests or suggests actions that are preferred but not mandatory.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

53%

News & Media

6%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if possible" functions as a versatile adverbial phrase used to express conditionality and politeness. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable. While frequently found in general and informal contexts like wikiHow and Wikipedia, its usage extends to more formal domains. When aiming for precision or commanding tone, consider alternative phrasing. Be aware of this expression's intrinsic nature, and use it accordingly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if feasible

Focuses on the practicality and achievability of something.

where applicable

Highlights that something should only be done in suitable cases.

if practicable

Stresses the ability to implement something effectively.

circumstances permitting

Indicates allowance based on current conditions.

if the opportunity arises

Suggests waiting for a favorable moment to act.

should the occasion arise

A more formal way of saying "if the opportunity arises".

as far as possible

Emphasizes making maximal effort towards something.

to the extent possible

Similar to "as far as possible", but slightly more formal.

depending on the circumstances

Highlights that actions depend on external conditions.

contingent on circumstances

Similar to "depending on the circumstances" but more formal.

FAQs

How do I use "if possible" correctly in a sentence?

Place "if possible" at the end of a request or suggestion to indicate that the action is not mandatory but preferred. For example, "Please submit your report by Friday, if possible".

What are some alternatives to "if possible"?

You can use alternatives like "if feasible", "where applicable", or "circumstances permitting" depending on the context.

Is it more polite to say "if possible" or "if you can"?

"If possible" is generally considered more polite and less direct than "if you can", as it focuses on the feasibility of the action rather than the person's ability.

When is it inappropriate to use "if possible"?

Avoid using "if possible" when giving instructions that must be followed without exception. In such cases, a direct and unambiguous command is more appropriate.