if that changes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if that changes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a condition where something may alter in the future, often in the context of plans or situations. Example: "I will proceed with the project as planned, but I will keep you updated if that changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

See if that changes anything.

WikiHow

If that changes, attitudes may harden.

The Economist

If that changes we would regroup".

The Guardian

So if that changes, I might leave".

The Guardian

If that changes I will let you know".

The Guardian - Opinion

"If that changes, we will certainly respond accordingly".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

If so, that changes the picture of MERS considerably.

Science Magazine

And if that ever changed, I would leave".

The New York Times

But now it looks as if that might change.

The Guardian

The landlord, Mr. Paravalos, wonders if that will change.

The New York Times

And I don't know if that will change.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the statement following "if that changes" logically connects to the altered scenario. The consequence should be a direct result of the change.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly defining what "that" refers to. Ensure it's immediately clear to the reader what condition or situation is subject to change. If necessary, rephrase to specify the element being modified.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if that changes" functions as a conditional conjunction, introducing a subordinate clause that specifies a condition under which the main clause's action or state will be affected. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science & Research

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if that changes" is a grammatically sound and commonly used conditional conjunction. It serves to introduce a contingency, indicating that a future action or decision is dependent upon an alteration in a previously stated condition. Predominantly found in news and media, its register is generally neutral, allowing for adaptability across diverse contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, understanding its proper usage, along with avoiding ambiguity, ensures clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if that is modified

This alternative emphasizes the modification of a condition.

if that is altered

This alternative emphasizes the alteration of a condition.

should that be different

This suggests a hypothetical difference in the current situation.

in the event of a shift

This alternative focuses on the occurrence of a shift.

if circumstances evolve

This alternative highlights the evolution of the circumstances.

if the situation shifts

This alternative emphasizes the shift in the overall situation.

were that to change

This is a more formal way to express a hypothetical change.

assuming that is different

This alternative introduces an assumption of a difference.

contingent on that shift

This alternative focuses on the dependency of an event on a shift.

depending on how that goes

This alternative is more conversational and focuses on the progression of events.

FAQs

How can I use "if that changes" in a sentence?

You can use "if that changes" to introduce a conditional statement where an action or decision depends on a future alteration. For example, "We plan to launch next week; "if that changes", we'll notify everyone immediately."

What are some alternatives to "if that changes"?

Alternatives include "if that is modified", "should that be different", or "in the event of a shift", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in case that changes" instead of "if that changes"?

"In case that changes" is less common and can sound slightly awkward. "If that changes" is generally the preferred and more idiomatic choice. You could also rephrase using alternatives like "in the event that" for a more formal tone.

What's the difference between "if that changes" and "if this changes"?

The choice between "if that changes" and "if this changes" depends on the context. "That" typically refers to something previously mentioned or understood, while "this" often refers to something in the immediate context or about to be mentioned. For example, "We expect sunny weather. "If that changes", we'll move the event indoors". "We are implementing a new policy. "If this changes", we will inform you".