if that makes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if that makes" is not complete on its own but can be part of a correct and usable expression in written English.
It is typically used to clarify or confirm understanding, often followed by a statement that explains or elaborates on a previous point. Example: "I can adjust the schedule to accommodate your needs, if that makes it easier for you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

If that makes me a racist, then so be it.

The Economist

If that makes me a bad American, so be it.

The New York Times

If that makes me lowbrow, so be it.

The New York Times - Books

I don't know if that makes me seem crazy".

The Guardian - Music

Even if (perhaps especially if) that makes grown-ups uncomfortable".

The Guardian

"If that makes me a bad mom then that's fine".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I wonder if that makes me underpaid or the C.E.O.

The New York Times

"If that makes me a Nimby, then I'm a Nimby".

The Guardian

If that makes me an elitist, I am an elitist".

The New York Times

"If that makes me a bitch, okay".

Huffington Post

If that makes me a bitch, OK".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if that makes" to ensure the listener or reader understands the connection between your statements, creating a smoother flow of communication.

Common error

In formal writing, excessive use of "if that makes" can sound repetitive. Opt for stronger, more direct transitions to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if that makes" functions as a connector, often used to introduce a conditional clause or to seek confirmation of understanding. As shown by Ludwig, it helps bridge ideas and ensure clarity in communication.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Huffington Post

10%

Less common in

The New Yorker

1%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if that makes" is a versatile connector employed to clarify ideas, ensure understanding, or soften statements. According to Ludwig, this construction is grammatically correct and finds common usage in contexts such as news media and general conversation. While generally neutral, overuse should be avoided in formal writing. Alternatives like "if that clarifies" can provide stylistic variety. Its frequent occurrence across diverse sources confirms its widespread acceptance and utility in enhancing communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if that implies

Focuses on the consequence or suggestion derived from a preceding statement.

if that suggests

Emphasizes a possible interpretation or hint arising from a given situation.

assuming that causes

Highlights a cause-and-effect relationship, contingent on the assumption being true.

if that results in

Directly indicates the outcome or consequence of a particular action or situation.

provided that creates

States a condition that, if met, will lead to a specific outcome.

in the event that produces

Highlights a less common or formal way to introduce a conditional result.

should that generate

Suggests a hypothetical scenario and its potential result.

given that originates

Emphasizes the foundation or source from which something stems.

considering that forms

Indicates that a particular outcome is being considered in light of the preceding statement.

on the condition that starts

Highlights a strict requirement that must be satisfied for something else to occur.

FAQs

How can I use "if that makes sense" in a sentence?

"If that makes sense" is often used to confirm that a potentially complex or abstract idea has been understood by the listener or reader. For example, "I felt a strange mix of excitement and fear, like standing on the edge of a cliff – if that makes sense".

What are some alternatives to "if that makes sense"?

Alternatives include "if that clarifies", "does that resonate", or "is that clear". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it correct to say "if that makes sense to you"?

While grammatically correct, adding "to you" to "if that makes sense" is often redundant because the implicit understanding is that you are checking for the listener's comprehension. It's generally more concise to simply say "if that makes sense".

What's the difference between "if that makes sense" and "if that is clear"?

"If that makes sense" focuses on whether the listener understands the underlying idea or logic, whereas "if that is clear" emphasizes whether the information has been presented in an understandable way. For example, "The process involves several steps; if that is clear, we can move on." versus "The philosophical concept is complex; if that makes sense, we can explore its implications."