if practicable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if practicable" is correct and usable in written English and is used to indicate a task that is possible or feasible to accomplish.
For example, "The committee shall meet at least once a month, if practicable."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

He sent orders to Ewell that Cemetery Hill be taken "if practicable".

Wikipedia

These emission-related components must be replaced with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) component, if practicable.

Cornell University

Resolved to form Sabbath schools at the different towns on the circuit if practicable.

Cornell University

He said the new guidance should be applied to those cases if practicable when there was a "substantial likelihood" that it would make more material public.

The New York Times

There has been considerable opinion to the effect that such an effort, even if practicable, might provoke even more vindictive action by the Germans.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In determining that such an emergency exists, the Assistant Administrator for the Disaster Assistance Directorate or Regional Administrator shall consult the Governor of the affected State, if practicable.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

We'll pay for our education if a practicable system for doing so, such as graduate taxation, is introduced.

The Guardian

If a practicable alternative exists outside the floodplain or wetland FEMA must locate the action at the alternative site.

Cornell University

(c) If technically practicable, the owner or operator of a significant emissions unit that relies on an emission factor to calculate PAL pollutant emissions shall conduct validation testing to determine a site-specific emission factor within 6 months of PAL permit issuance, unless the reviewing authority determines that testing is not required.

Cornell University

It might even be sold, or, if it were practicable, shared with the French.

The Economist

The two sections must be so construed as to give effect to both, if that be practicable.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if practicable" to introduce flexibility in requirements or instructions, acknowledging that circumstances might prevent strict adherence.

Common error

Avoid using "if practicable" excessively in a single document, as it can weaken the perceived commitment to the stated goals. Use it judiciously to allow for necessary flexibility without undermining the overall objectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if practicable" functions as an adverbial modifier, adding a condition or qualification to a statement. It indicates that an action or requirement is contingent on its feasibility or possibility. Ludwig AI confirms this by showcasing it in a variety of sentences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

31%

News & Media

23%

Science

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if practicable" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to introduce a condition of feasibility. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates that an action or requirement should be followed unless it proves impossible or unfeasible to do so. It's most frequently encountered in academic, news, and scientific contexts, where a degree of flexibility is often necessary. While "if practicable" is generally appropriate for formal and informal writing, overuse should be avoided. Consider alternatives such as "if possible" or "where appropriate" for variety. Using "if practicable" judiciously allows for necessary flexibility without undermining the clarity or intent of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if feasible

Replaces "practicable" with a synonym indicating possibility and ease of accomplishment.

if possible

A more general term indicating whether something can be done.

where feasible

Similar to "if feasible" but emphasizing the circumstances under which something is possible.

to the extent practicable

Adds a dimension of degree, acknowledging limitations and constraints.

if achievable

Focuses on the attainability of a goal or task.

if viable

Emphasizes the capacity to succeed or function effectively.

insofar as it is practicable

More formal phrasing expressing the degree to which something is feasible.

where appropriate

Indicates suitability and relevance in addition to feasibility.

if circumstances allow

Specifies that actions depend on prevailing conditions.

if convenient

Highlights ease and suitability for a particular purpose.

FAQs

What does "if practicable" mean?

The phrase "if practicable" means if something is feasible, possible, or capable of being put into practice given the circumstances.

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

You can use "if practicable" to indicate that an action should be taken unless it's not feasible. For example, "The meeting will be held on Monday, "if practicable"".

What are some alternatives to "if practicable"?

Some alternatives to "if practicable" include "if possible", "if feasible", or "where appropriate", depending on the specific context.

Is "if practicable" formal or informal?

"If practicable" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's more commonly found in formal writing due to its precise and somewhat technical tone.