if that were the case

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "if that were the case" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to suggest that something is not true at the moment but could be true if the current situation were different. For example: "I would be able to help you, but if that were the case, I would already be doing so."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

If that were the case, it would move the ball.

The Washington Post

If that were the case, millions of people might die.

The New York Times

"I would never endorse TTIP if that were the case.

The Guardian

If that were the case, Phelps's demeanor gave nothing away.

The New York Times - Sports

If that were the case, how did Hitler win?

The New York Times

If that were the case, we'd all be dead.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Even if that is the case.

WikiHow

If that's the case, be careful.

The Guardian - Tech

If that's the case, sorry.

The Guardian - Music

Well if that's the case.

The New York Times

If that's the case, kindly desist.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if that were the case" to introduce a logical consequence that would follow if a hypothetical condition were true. It adds a layer of reasoning to your argument.

Common error

Avoid mixing tenses when using "if that were the case". Ensure that the subsequent clause maintains a consistent conditional tense to maintain logical flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if that were the case" functions as a conditional clause connector. It introduces a hypothetical condition and implies a consequence if that condition were true. Ludwig AI identifies this usage pattern in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if that were the case" is a versatile tool for expressing conditional scenarios and logical consequences. As Ludwig AI points out, it enjoys widespread use across various contexts, including news, academia, and formal communication. While grammatically sound, be mindful of maintaining consistent tense agreement in the surrounding clauses. Consider alternatives like "if that were so" or "were that the situation" to adjust the formality. Avoid mixing tenses and make sure the subsequent clause maintains the conditional tense. By understanding its function and common pitfalls, you can effectively use "if that were the case" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if that were so

Replaces "case" with "so", maintaining a similar level of formality and hypothetical meaning.

if that were true

Substitutes "case" with "true", focusing on the truthfulness of the preceding statement.

were that the situation

Inverts the sentence structure for a more formal and emphatic tone.

if the situation were such

Rephrases to emphasize the hypothetical nature of the situation.

assuming that was the situation

Highlights the assumption being made about the situation.

in that scenario

Shortens the phrase, focusing on the hypothetical scenario itself.

if things were like that

Simplifies the language for a more informal tone.

should that be the situation

Uses "should" to express a more tentative or unlikely condition.

in such circumstances

Replaces the specific condition with a general reference to circumstances.

if the circumstances aligned

Emphasizes the alignment of circumstances as a condition.

FAQs

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

The phrase "if that were the case" introduces a hypothetical situation and its consequence. For example, "They claim the product is safe; "if that were the case", there wouldn't be so many complaints".

What's a more formal alternative to "if that were the case"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "were that the situation" or "if the situation were such". These options offer a similar meaning with a more elevated register.

Is "if that was the case" grammatically correct?

While "if that were the case" is more grammatically precise for hypothetical situations, "if that was the case" is often used in informal speech. However, "if that were the case" is preferable in formal writing.

What does "if that were the case" imply?

The phrase "if that were the case" implies that the speaker doubts or believes the preceding statement is unlikely or untrue. It sets up a hypothetical scenario to explore potential consequences.