if serviceable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if serviceable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing whether something is usable or functional, often in a conditional context. Example: "We will proceed with the project if serviceable materials are available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

WINE LIST A tiny if serviceable list of wines, sakes and sojus, and OB beer.

The New York Times - Food

(Neil Genzlinger) Off Off Broadway 'Benito Cereno' This play by Robert Lowell, based on a novella by Herman Melville about a mysterious ship and its crew, sometimes stifles its message in a Horizon Theater Rep production that's stagey if serviceable (1 30).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Service was serviceable, if inconsistent.

Huffington Post

Serviceable service.

The New York Times

If a serviceable definition of the concept of a corrupt action is to be found — and specifically, one that does not collapse into the more general notion of an immoral action — then attention needs to be focussed on the moral effects that some actions have on persons and institutions.

SEP

A serviceable if unexciting sausage.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is for the most part serviceable, if expensive.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"If he's serviceable and usable, then I'd like to have him.

The New York Times

The translation is serviceable if not very poetic or accurate, line by line.

The New York Times - Arts

Conclusion: this couple have a serviceable, if not particularly joyful, union.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Dafoe and Ms. Roberts are serviceable if awkwardly matched, and his bad-dad lines can be risible.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if serviceable", ensure the context clearly defines what 'serviceable' means. For instance, specify the standard or requirement that determines whether something is considered serviceable.

Common error

Avoid using "if serviceable" without providing context. Clearly define what constitutes 'serviceable' within your specific situation. For example, instead of 'Use the tool if serviceable', specify 'Use the tool if serviceable, meaning all safety features are functioning correctly'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if serviceable" functions as a conditional conjunction, introducing a condition upon which the main clause depends. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It sets a requirement for something to be usable or functional before a certain action can be taken.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "if serviceable" introduces a conditional element that depends on the usability or functionality of something. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically sound and finds consistent usage across various sources. Although it's not very common, appearing more frequently in news, media, science, and wiki contexts, its directness makes it suitable for a variety of writing styles. When using "if serviceable", ensure that you clearly define what 'serviceable' means in the specific context to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternative phrases like "provided it's functional" or "assuming it works" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it is in working order

Explicitly states the requirement for operational functionality.

so long as it's operational

Highlights the importance of being operational.

provided it's functional

Focuses on the functionality aspect with a slightly more formal tone.

in the event that it's usable

Introduces a conditional scenario for usability.

assuming it works

Emphasizes the working condition as a prerequisite.

on the condition that it functions

Sets a strict requirement for functionality.

contingent on its usability

Highlights usability as the determining factor with a more formal tone.

subject to its condition

Directly refers to the physical or operational state.

dependent on its fitness for purpose

Emphasizes suitability for a specific task.

given its current state

Considers the present condition as a determining factor.

FAQs

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

You can use "if serviceable" to express a condition based on usability or functionality. For example, "We will use this equipment "if serviceable", meaning it meets all safety requirements."

What phrases are similar to "if serviceable"?

Similar phrases include "provided it's functional", "assuming it works", or "contingent on its usability", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of usability.

Is it better to say "if serviceable" or "if usable"?

Both "if serviceable" and "if usable" are correct, but "serviceable" implies a degree of functionality beyond mere usability. Use "serviceable" when referring to whether something is suitable for a specific service or purpose.

What does "serviceable" mean in the context of "if serviceable"?

In the context of "if serviceable", "serviceable" means that something is in a condition that allows it to be used effectively and safely for its intended purpose. It implies that it's not just usable, but also reliable and fit for service.