if things get

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if things get" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in conditional statements to indicate a situation that may change or escalate. Example: "If things get complicated, we may need to reconsider our approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

What if things get violent?

The New Yorker

"Will I physically stay if things get bad?" he continued.

The New York Times

If things get worse, they'll have to do something radical".

The New York Times

If things get too hard, discard and look somewhere else.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

If things get worse over time it's red.

Cornell University

And if things get out of hand, call the police.

The New York Times

But if things get worse, will they have to?

The New York Times

We can change the channel if things get too ugly.

The New York Times

I have to get centred if things get too stressful.

The Guardian

The danger comes if things get out of control.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

What if things get worse?

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if things get", clearly define the potential negative outcomes to provide context and guide appropriate actions. For example, "If things get complicated, we may need to reconsider our approach."

Common error

Don't use "if things get" without specifying what 'getting' worse entails. This can lead to confusion. Instead of saying "If things get bad, call me", specify, "If things get violent, call me."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if things get" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a scenario that might occur. As Ludwig AI confirms, it sets the stage for potential consequences or necessary actions. The conditional is very common and versatile across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

31%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "if things get" is a common and versatile conditional phrase used to introduce potential scenarios, typically involving negative changes or complications. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, from news and media to academic and informal settings. While its neutral register makes it broadly applicable, more formal alternatives may be preferred in certain professional communications. To ensure clarity, avoid vagueness by clearly specifying the potential negative outcomes. By understanding its function, purpose, and context, you can effectively use "if things get" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if matters take a turn for the worse

This alternative highlights a negative change in the situation.

should the situation worsen

A more formal and direct way to indicate a deteriorating situation.

if the situation declines

This option directly addresses a decrease in the quality or stability of the situation.

when things become difficult

This option emphasizes the emergence of challenges and hardships.

in the event that circumstances worsen

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the possibility of a negative turn of events.

assuming things go downhill

This alternative is slightly less formal and indicates a downward trend.

should conditions deteriorate

This is a more formal and concise way of expressing a decline in circumstances.

in case the situation spirals

This suggests a rapid and uncontrolled worsening of events.

if circumstances fall apart

This alternative suggests a complete and possibly sudden failure of the current state.

if the status quo degrades

This is a more formal alternative focusing on a decline from the current state.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "if things get" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "should the situation", "in the event that", or "should conditions deteriorate" depending on the context.

What does "if things get" usually imply?

The phrase "if things get" generally suggests a potential negative change or worsening of a situation. It often precedes advice or a proposed course of action to mitigate the anticipated negative outcome.

Is it okay to use "if things get" in professional writing?

While "if things get" is acceptable, it may be perceived as informal for certain professional contexts. In formal business communications, consider using more precise and professional alternatives such as "if circumstances worsen" or "should the situation arise".

How to use "if things get" in a sentence?

You can use "if things get" to introduce a conditional clause. For instance, "If things get out of hand, call the police" or "If things get too stressful, take a break".