if there comes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if there comes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in conditional statements to indicate a future event or situation that may occur. Example: "If there comes a time when we need to make a decision, we will consult everyone involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"Of course I would like to see Mr. Brandon if there comes any . . .

The New Yorker

If there comes a national cap-and-trade system, we will have done a lot of the work.

The New York Times

If there comes a time [when an active life isn't possible], we will stay in our home in Plains, we have our little church.

The Washington Post

But he added, "If there comes a time when the decision has been lost and their fate has been determined by the [Ayatollah Ruhollah] Khomeini, then that's a different matter.

The Washington Post

"I have always said, regardless of what club I am at, that if there comes a time when any player outgrows the football club, I won't be the person to stand in their way," Coyle said.

The Guardian - Sport

But it would be too bad if there comes a day when they are universally banned.Unfortunately for new parents, airlines' profit margins are heavily reliant on business travellers, and people travelling for business are much less likely to have babies with them.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

If there came a time where your departure could spare great bloodshed, would you resign? A. My responsibility is to precisely to prevent that from happening...

The New York Times

And now will I go indoors and make all ready there, for, if there come good news from thee, my house shall ring with women's cries of joy; but, if thou art slain, a different scene must then ensue.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

If what's going on there comes to this area, that's the end of it".

The New York Times

This perfectly captures the essence of the city if there comes a moment that LA decides it likes you, $50 says you'll be packing up and moving out here immediately.

Vice

"If we get there," came a chorus.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if there comes", ensure that the subsequent verb form agrees with the subject. For example, use "if there comes a time" rather than "if there come a time".

Common error

Avoid using a plural verb form with a singular subject following "if there comes". For example, instead of "if there comes problems", use "if there comes a problem".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if there comes" functions as an introductory conditional clause, setting the stage for a hypothetical situation or event. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it introduces a condition that, if met, will lead to a specific outcome. It's used to express possibilities and future scenarios.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if there comes" is a grammatically sound and versatile conditional clause used to introduce hypothetical scenarios. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is common in "News & Media", "Science", and "Wiki" sources. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can shift based on context. When using "if there comes", remember to maintain subject-verb agreement and consider alternative phrasing for clarity or desired nuance. Use this phrase to set up a condition that, when fulfilled, dictates the result.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if the time comes

More direct reference to a specific point in time.

should the occasion arise

More formal and emphasizes the possibility of an event happening.

if a situation develops

Focuses on the unfolding of a particular circumstance.

in the event that it arises

Formal and highlights a possible future occurrence.

if an opportunity presents itself

Specifically refers to a favorable chance becoming available.

when the moment arrives

Highlights a specific point in time materializing.

if such a need arises

Emphasizes a requirement or necessity that might occur.

if a need should arise

Similar to the above, but with a more formal tone.

if the situation warrants

Focuses on whether the circumstances justify a particular action.

in case the situation occurs

Emphasizes preparation for a potential event.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "if there comes" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "if the time comes", "should the occasion arise", or "in the event that it arises" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "if there comes a time" or "when the time comes"?

"If there comes a time" is generally considered more formal than "when the time comes". The former is often used in more deliberative or hypothetical contexts, while the latter implies a higher degree of certainty or expectation.

What's the difference between "if there is" and "if there comes"?

"If there is" refers to a current or existing condition, while "if there comes" refers to a future or potential condition. For example, "If there is a problem, we'll address it" versus "If there comes a need, we'll provide assistance".

How to use "if there comes" to express a warning or precaution?

You can use "if there comes" to express a warning by stating the negative consequences that may follow a certain event. For example, "If there comes a heavy rain, there could be flooding in the low-lying areas".