if there is a delay

USAGE SUMMARY

"if there is a delay" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to introduce a conditional clause, meaning that something will happen only if there is a delay. Example: If there is a delay in the delivery of our shipment, we will have to adjust our production schedule accordingly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

And if there is a delay, let me assure you it is not from our side".

The New York Times

If there is a delay, first ring to see what has happened.

The Guardian - Money

If there is a delay, they would have to wait for our model to take a picture".

The New York Times

Under the agreement, the owners would ideally make the $280 million payment on the first of the year, but if there is a delay interest could be added.

The New York Times - Sports

If there is a delay to Mr O'Leary's plans, it is likely to be caused by a problem with incoming aircraft.

The Economist

If there is a delay, the workers on the West Coast line can turn quickly to help the ones hustling to meet East Coast deadlines.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Definition 3.1 The uncertain switched control system (3.10) is robustly stabilizable if there is a delayed feedback control (3.11) such that the switched system (3.13) is robustly stable.

Advances in Difference Equations

Definition 3.1 The nonlinear uncertain system (3.9) is robustly stabilizable if there is a delayed feedback control (3.10) such that the closed-loop delay nonlinear uncertain system (3.11) is robustly stable.

Advances in Difference Equations

So if there's a delay in treating them, that increases the risk of premature death".

The Guardian

In the UK under the gold standard treatment protocol, if there was a delay he would be given chemotherapy.

The Guardian

"Sometimes, if there's a delay between the baby dying and being born, it can make them fragile.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if there is a delay", clearly state the consequence or action that will follow. This makes your statement more informative and actionable.

Common error

Avoid using "if there is a delay" without specifying what will happen as a result. Vague statements lack clarity and impact. Always clarify the consequences that follow “if there is a delay”.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if there is a delay" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a condition that, if met, will lead to a specific result. It's used to set up hypothetical scenarios, as seen in Ludwig's examples, preparing the listener or reader for potential consequences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

38%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if there is a delay" is a common and grammatically sound conditional clause used to introduce potential disruptions and their consequences. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is versatile and appropriate for various registers, from formal news reports to everyday conversations. Its purpose is to express contingency and proactively address potential disruptions. When using this phrase, clearly state the resulting action to ensure clarity and avoid vague statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if a delay happens

Simplifies the structure using 'happens' instead of 'is'.

in case of a delay

More concise, focusing on contingency.

in the event of a delay

Formal alternative emphasizing a possible occurrence.

if a delay arises

Replaces "is" with "arises", suggesting the delay is unexpected.

should a delay occur

More formal and somewhat less common inversion.

assuming there is a delay

Emphasizes an assumption of a possible delay.

when there is a delay

Shifts focus slightly from condition to time.

provided there is a delay

More formal, indicating a provision or condition.

if delays are encountered

Generalizes to multiple delays and uses passive voice.

on the condition that there is a delay

Highly formal and specific about the condition.

FAQs

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

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "in the event of a delay" or "should a delay occur". These options provide a more sophisticated and professional feel.

What are some alternatives to "if there is a delay" for everyday conversation?

In casual conversation, you could use simpler alternatives like "if a delay happens" or "in case of a delay". These options are more straightforward and easier to understand.

How does "if there is a delay" differ from "when there is a delay"?

"If there is a delay" presents a conditional scenario, focusing on what will happen if a delay occurs. "When there is a delay" implies that a delay is expected or likely to happen, shifting the focus to when it occurs.

Is it always necessary to specify the outcome "if there is a delay"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the outcome after "if there is a delay" provides clarity and context. Without it, the statement can feel incomplete or vague. Always consider your audience and the purpose of your communication when deciding whether to include the outcome.