Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

if this makes

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if this makes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are questioning the effect or outcome of a particular action or situation. Example: "If this makes sense to you, please let me know so we can proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

What if this makes American primacy unworkable?

News & Media

The Economist

And if this makes you feel bad, so?

News & Media

The New York Times

If this makes me a socialist, then I'm a socialist.

News & Media

Independent

If this makes you queasy, read Mr Pallotta's book.

News & Media

The Economist

I don't know if this makes me young or old.

But if this makes its appeal sound limited, think again.

I'm not sure, at this point, if this makes sense as a regular practice.

News & Media

The New York Times

If this makes Ms. Burden, who is 54, sound like one tough cookie, she is not.

News & Media

The New York Times

If this makes some of you uncomfortable, it's not my concern.

News & Media

Independent

(And if this makes me happy, I can only imagine how the vegetarians feel).

News & Media

The New York Times

If this makes the novel sound broken-backed, that is certainly not the case.

News & Media

Independent
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if this makes", ensure that the subject and verb in the following clause agree grammatically to maintain clarity and professionalism in writing.

Common error

Avoid using "if this makes" when a different conditional conjunction like "because" or "since" would more accurately reflect the relationship between the clauses. "If this makes" should specifically indicate a conditional outcome, not a direct cause.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if this makes" functions as a conditional conjunction, introducing a dependent clause that sets a condition for the main clause. According to Ludwig AI, it is frequently used in written English to express potential outcomes or reactions based on a particular circumstance. For instance, "If this makes you uncomfortable, we recommend you not go into the area".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

22%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if this makes" is a frequently used and grammatically correct conjunction phrase that introduces conditional clauses. According to Ludwig AI, its main function is to establish a cause-and-effect relationship, allowing writers to express potential outcomes based on specific conditions. While primarily found in news and media, it is versatile enough for both formal and informal writing. Remember to use it when you are sure about the existence of a conditional outcome and be consistent with sentence grammar for better clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "if this makes" in a sentence?

You can use "if this makes" to introduce a conditional clause that explains the potential outcome or effect of a situation. For example, "If this makes sense, we can move forward with the plan."

What are some alternatives to "if this makes"?

Alternatives include phrases like "if this results in", "should this lead to", or "assuming this generates", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "if this makes"?

While grammatically correct, using "if this makes" might be inappropriate if the relationship between the clauses is not genuinely conditional. In such cases, using "because" or "since" might be more accurate.

What's the difference between "if this makes sense" and "if this is clear"?

"If this makes sense" questions understanding, while "if this is clear" checks for clarity or ambiguity. Use the former when you want to ensure comprehension, and the latter when you want to ensure the information is easily understood.

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

Editing plus AI, all in one place.

Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.

Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: