if there is to be

USAGE SUMMARY

"if there is to be" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used as a conditional phrase, indicating that something may or may not happen in the future. Example: If there is to be a storm, we should prepare by securing the windows and doors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

IF THERE is to be a new arms race in space, China will be in it.

The Economist

If there is to be success, that has to change.

The Guardian

If there is to be a monument, it can wait.

The New York Times - Arts

If there is to be true equality, this cannot be allowed to continue".

Independent

But if there is to be a deal, the players union must make concessions.

The New York Times - Sports

If there is to be one, they say, get it over with as soon as possible.

The Economist

If there is to be a stumbling block, it will involve money.

Independent

If there is to be a new city church, they argue, then why not a mosque?

The Economist

The Nixon moment, if there is to be one, will have to come later.

The Economist

If there is to be a curfew, let the men stay home".

The New York Times

If there is to be a viable market, governments will be the main buyers.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if there is to be", ensure that the subsequent clause clearly states the expected result or consequence. This helps maintain clarity and logical flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid mixing tenses incorrectly when using "if there is to be". Ensure the main clause reflects the conditional nature of the phrase. For instance, don't say "If there is to be a party, I went." Instead, use "If there is to be a party, I will go".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if there is to be" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a hypothetical or planned event that is not yet certain. As shown by Ludwig, it sets a condition upon which a subsequent action or state depends. This structure allows for discussing potential future scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if there is to be" serves as a conditional phrase used to introduce future or hypothetical scenarios. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts such as news, science, and formal communications. Given its formality, it is best suited for professional or academic writing, ensuring clarity and logical flow. When using this phrase, ensure correct tense agreement and clear statement of expected results. Furthermore, several alternatives like "should there be" or "assuming there is" can be employed based on the specific context to add emphasis or caution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were there to be

Uses a subjunctive mood to express a hypothetical situation.

should there be

Inverts the sentence structure for emphasis or formality.

in the event that there is

Adds a more formal and cautious tone.

if there should happen to be

Emphasizes the uncertainty of the condition.

assuming there is

Suggests a presumption about the existence of something.

provided that there is

Highlights a specific requirement or condition.

suppose there is

Introduces a hypothetical scenario for consideration.

on the condition that there is

Similar to 'provided that', but more explicit about the condition.

in cases where there is

Focuses on specific instances or situations.

if it comes to pass that there is

A more elaborate way of expressing a conditional event.

FAQs

How can I use "if there is to be" in a sentence?

Use "if there is to be" to introduce a hypothetical situation or condition. For example, "If there is to be a meeting, please inform all the members in advance".

What are some alternatives to "if there is to be"?

You can use alternatives such as "should there be", "in the event that there is", or "assuming there is" depending on the context.

Is "if there is to be" formal or informal?

"If there is to be" is generally considered a formal expression, suitable for professional or academic writing. Simpler alternatives might be preferred in very informal contexts.

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

"If there is" refers to a present or general condition. "If there is to be" refers to a future or planned event, implying that the event is not yet certain. For example, "If there is a problem, let me know" vs "If there is to be a change, we'll notify you".