if there is a chance

USAGE SUMMARY

'if there is a chance' is a correct and usable phrase in written English and can be used in a variety of contexts.
For example, you could use this phrase in the sentence "If there is a chance of success, I'm willing to take the risk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Is it not spoofing if there is a chance someone will accept your order?

Huffington Post

Is it my duty to conceal what he has done, if there is a chance of keeping it secret?

Huffington Post

Mr Christofias seems ready to run again in 2013 if there is a chance of a deal.

The Economist

With this information, a driver can reserve extra time if there is a chance the trip may run late.

The New York Times

Check the forecast before the ride, and, if there is a chance of rain, take a waterproof jacket.

The Guardian - Travel

If there is a chance to repeat the Libyan experience, he notes, "the test will come in Iran".

The New York Times

If there is a chance for him to come he will be welcome – because any help is welcome".

The Guardian - Sport

But if there is a chance for them to sign David Villa, they'd be mad not to take it.

The Guardian - Sport

If there is a chance to make myself look like a dunderhead, I will run straight towards it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Divers looking for bodies or survivors say it is too risky to enter the hull if there is a chance that the ship will shift further.

The New York Times

If there is a chance that an institution or individual could raise the sum required, the export ban could be extended to January 2014.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if there is a chance", ensure the sentence clearly outlines the action or outcome that depends on this possibility. For instance, "If there is a chance of rain, pack an umbrella" clearly connects the condition (rain) with the action (packing an umbrella).

Common error

Avoid using "if there is a chance" when the possibility is extremely remote or nonexistent. It's best suited for situations where there's a reasonable likelihood, however small, of something happening.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if there is a chance" functions as a conditional clause introducer. It sets up a condition upon which another action or outcome depends. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if there is a chance" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that introduces a conditional clause, setting the stage for potential actions or outcomes. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is versatile and appropriate across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While alternatives like "should the occasion present itself" exist for more formal settings, and "on the off chance" for informal ones, understanding the level of certainty and clearly outlining dependent actions will ensure its effective usage. Ludwig’s examples underline its widespread applicability, making it a key component of effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if an opportunity arises

Replaces "chance" with "opportunity" and uses a more active phrasing with "arises".

if the possibility exists

Substitutes "chance" with the more formal "possibility" and uses the verb "exists" to convey the condition.

should the occasion present itself

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of expressing a similar idea, using "occasion" and "present itself".

in the event of an opportunity

Similar to "if an opportunity arises" but uses a more structured and formal phrasing.

provided an opening emerges

Uses "opening" as a synonym for "chance" or "opportunity" and "emerges" to indicate its appearance.

on the off chance

An idiomatic expression that means "if there is a slight possibility".

if circumstances allow

Focuses on external conditions ("circumstances") enabling the possibility.

assuming the opportunity presents itself

Similar to "should the occasion present itself" but slightly less formal.

if a window of opportunity opens

Uses the metaphor of a "window of opportunity" to emphasize a limited timeframe.

where the potential exists

This phrase uses "potential" to represent the possibility.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "if there is a chance" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "should the occasion present itself" or "in the event of an opportunity". These options add a level of sophistication to your writing.

What's a more casual way to say "if there is a chance"?

In informal contexts, you could use "on the off chance", which suggests a slight possibility or a hopeful expectation.

How does "if there is a chance" differ from "if there is a possibility"?

While similar, "if there is a possibility" is generally more formal and emphasizes the existence of potential, while "if there is a chance" implies a slightly more active or opportune circumstance.

Can I use "when there is a chance" instead of "if there is a chance"?

The two phrases have different meanings. "If there is a chance" presents a conditional situation; "when there is a chance" specifies a point in time. The choice will depend on the intended meaning.