if we receive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'if we receive' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as part of a conditional sentence, in which you are expressing a hypothetical situation that is dependent on a certain condition. For example, "If we receive enough donations, we will be able to fund our project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"If we receive an application we'll review it".

The New York Times

We will update if we receive a response.

The Washington Post

If we receive multiple complaints about the same matter we may make one response to all.

The Times

"However, we will only sell him if we receive an acceptable offer.

The Guardian - Sport

If we receive multiple complaints about the same issue we may not respond to all.

The Guardian

If we receive a demand we can push back against the agency.

The Guardian - Business

If we receive them we report them to the Electoral Commission in accordance with legislation".

The Guardian

"If we receive complaints, we have a responsibility to talk to that audience patron.

The New York Times - Arts

"If we receive fire, we can engage and neutralize them," he said of the rebels.

The New York Times

There is also a threat: recompense may be demanded if we receive "undeserved touch".

The Guardian - Arts

"If we receive an application, it will be considered in due process of law".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if we receive", clearly state what action will follow the reception. This makes the conditional statement more impactful and easier to understand.

Common error

Don't use "if we receive" without specifying what constitutes receiving. For instance, instead of saying "If we receive, we will act", specify "If we receive enough funding, we will launch the project."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if we receive" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a hypothetical situation. Ludwig's examples show it's typically followed by a main clause that describes the result or action taken if the condition is met. This structure sets up a cause-and-effect relationship.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if we receive" is a versatile phrase used to introduce conditional scenarios. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, this phrase serves to outline potential actions contingent upon obtaining something. For enhanced clarity, specify the condition explicitly and avoid vague statements. While synonyms like "should we be given" and "in the event of receiving" offer alternative phrasing, "if we receive" remains a common and effective choice for expressing conditions. Make sure to clearly indicate the subsequent action or outcome when using the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should we be given

Replaces "if" with "should", changing the conditional introduction while maintaining a passive receiving action.

provided we are given

Uses "provided" instead of "if" and shifts to a passive construction with "are given".

if we are in receipt of

Adds formality by using "in receipt of" instead of "receive".

in the event of receiving

Replaces "if" with a more formal "in the event of", emphasizing the potential reception.

on receipt of

Uses a more concise and formal structure focusing on the action of receiving.

assuming we get

Replaces "receive" with the more informal "get", changing the tone slightly.

if we happen to obtain

Adds "happen to" to express a more casual and less certain acquisition.

once we acquire

Changes the verb to "acquire", suggesting a more deliberate effort to obtain something.

should it come to our attention

Significantly alters the structure to focus on something coming to attention rather than direct receiving.

when we are sent

Focuses on being sent something, highlighting the sender's action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "if we receive" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, you can use phrases like "in the event of receiving" or "on receipt of".

What's a more casual alternative to "if we receive"?

For a more casual tone, consider using "assuming we get" or "if we get".

How does "if we receive" differ from "if we are given"?

"If we receive" implies a direct action of taking something, while "if we are given" suggests a passive acceptance of something being offered. The choice depends on whether the focus is on the act of obtaining or the state of being granted.

Can I use "should we receive" instead of "if we receive"?

Yes, "should we be given" is a valid alternative that emphasizes the hypothetical nature of the condition and often sounds more formal. It can be used interchangeably in many contexts.