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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
if this happen
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
This phrase is not correct and cannot be used in written English.
The correct phrase would be "if this happens." This phrase is typically used in conditional sentences, where the second part of the sentence expresses a possible consequence or result if the condition is met. Example: If it rains, we will cancel the picnic.
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Wiki
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(16)
if this happens
should this happen
in the event that this happens
if this were to happen
assuming this happens
in case this happens
if this occurs
should it be repeated
if this outcome
if this happened again
should this be repeated
in the event of a recurrence
should this recur
if this happens again
if it happens again
if this happened
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
If this happen, you become an ineffective role model because you mirror conflict avoidance behavior.
Wiki
If this happen be sure to cleanse your mojo bag with Florida Water or other means of cleansing.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
"What if this happens?
News & Media
We would see massacres if this happened".
News & Media
I was saying, 'What if this happens?
News & Media
"North Texas was prepared if this happened.
News & Media
If this happens, fair enough.
News & Media
"I was thinking, 'If this happens, if that happens, if this happens,' " he said.
News & Media
I ask if this happens often.
News & Media
If this happens, Harvard will be fine.
News & Media
(If this happens, skip to Step 5).
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Always use the correct grammatical form: "if this happens". This ensures clarity and credibility in your writing.
Common error
Do not use "if this happen". This is grammatically incorrect. Always use the third-person singular form "happens" after "this".
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
2.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "if this happen" functions as an incorrect conditional clause. It aims to introduce a condition that, if met, will lead to a specific result. However, the verb form is grammatically wrong. Ludwig confirms its incorrectness.
Frequent in
Wiki
50%
News & Media
30%
Science
20%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "if this happen" is an incorrect conditional clause that should be avoided in formal writing. As Ludwig AI indicates, the correct form is "if this happens". While the intent is to set a condition and describe a potential result, the grammatical error undermines clarity and credibility. The most frequent contexts where this phrase appears are Wiki, News & Media, and Science, but its rarity underscores the importance of using the grammatically correct alternative for clear communication.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
if this happens
Corrects the grammatical error by using the correct verb form.
if this should happen
Adds a layer of formality and possibility to the conditional statement.
in the event that this happens
Replaces "if" with a more formal expression for the condition.
should this happen
Inverts the sentence structure for a more formal and less common phrasing.
if this were to happen
Introduces a hypothetical or unlikely scenario.
assuming this happens
Shifts the focus to the assumption that the event will occur.
on the occasion that this happens
Similar to "in the event that", but slightly less formal.
in case this happens
Emphasizes preparation for a possible event.
provided that this happens
Highlights the condition as a prerequisite for something else.
given that this happens
Acknowledges the condition as a given circumstance.
FAQs
What is the correct way to say "if this happen"?
The correct phrasing is "if this happens". The verb must agree with the subject 'this', requiring the third-person singular form.
Is "if this happen" grammatically correct?
No, "if this happen" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "if this happens".
When should I use "if this happens"?
Use "if this happens" when you want to describe a condition and a possible outcome or consequence, ensuring the verb "happens" agrees with the singular subject 'this'.
What can I say instead of "if this happen" to sound more formal?
For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "should this happen" or "in the event that this happens" instead of the incorrect "if this happen".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
2.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested