if that is the case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if that is the case" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when considering a situation that might not be true but is possible. For example: "If that is the case, then we will have to take a different approach to the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Significant errors arise if that is the case.

Global Health Action

Even if that is the case.

WikiHow

The registry should state this if that is the case.

WikiHow

Start with 60 grit sandpaper if that is the case.

WikiHow

If that is the case, then Lichtenstein is David Rodinsky's.

The Guardian - Books

If that is the case, you are certainly not alone.

Harvard Business Review

If that is the case, why sell them off?

The Economist

If that is the case, it is not surprising.

The New York Times - Sports

If that is the case, the repercussions could be enormous.

The New York Times

If that is the case, someone isn't following procedure.

The New York Times

If that is the case, it was wrong.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if that is the case" to clearly indicate a conditional scenario and its consequences. It is most effective when the 'case' has been previously established in the conversation or writing.

Common error

Avoid using "if that is the case" when the 'case' is ambiguous or undefined. Ensure the reader or listener understands what 'that' refers to, or it will create confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if that is the case" functions as a conditional marker, introducing a clause that expresses a condition and its likely consequence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. It signals that the following statement is contingent upon the truth of the preceding one.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Wiki

22%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if that is the case" is a versatile phrase used to introduce conditional statements across a range of contexts. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While it maintains a generally neutral register, alternative phrases may be preferred for specific levels of formality. As shown by Ludwig examples, this phrase is particularly common in news, wiki content, academic writing, and scientific discourse. When using "if that is the case", ensure the 'case' is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. It's a valuable tool for expressing logical connections and outlining potential outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if so

A more concise alternative, omitting specific reference to "that is the case".

if that's so

A contraction using "that's" instead of "that is", resulting in a more informal tone.

if this is so

Replaces "that" with "this", focusing on a more immediate or present situation.

in that event

A more formal substitute, shifting the focus to the event or situation.

if that holds true

Emphasizes the truth or validity of the condition.

should that be true

Uses an inverted structure to express conditionality, adding a touch of formality.

assuming that's true

Highlights the assumption underlying the condition.

in such circumstances

Similar to "given these circumstances", emphasizing the situational context.

given these circumstances

Shifts the focus to the overall circumstances as the condition.

if the situation is as described

More explicitly refers to a previously described situation.

FAQs

How can I use "if that is the case" in a sentence?

Use "if that is the case" to introduce a consequence or action that depends on a specific condition being true. For instance, "If that is the case, we need to adjust our strategy immediately".

What are some alternatives to "if that is the case"?

Alternatives include "if so", "in that event", or "should that be true", depending on the desired level of formality and context.

Is "if that is the case" formal or informal?

"If that is the case" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, alternatives like "in that event" are more formal.

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

"If that is the case" typically refers to a previously mentioned or understood situation, while "if this is so" might refer to a more immediate or present situation. The choice depends on the specific context and what you are referencing.