if we survive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if we survive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing potential outcomes or conditions that depend on survival, whether literal or metaphorical. Example: "We will plan for the future, but only if we survive this crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

If we survive at all.

The New Yorker

If we survive, I'd love to see you again.

The New Yorker

Neighbors wished one another well with film-noir sardonic farewells: "See you later, if we survive".

The New York Times

If we survive next week, there will be more cans and another fiscal cliff or two.

The New York Times

"If we survive, it's as a bedroom community to Orange County".

The New York Times

It does make us tougher and stronger if we survive it".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

If we survived, they made money.

The New York Times

Coulter recalls from in Melbourne: "We met on leaves and spoke of what we might do if we survived — then were given the chance to do it".

Independent

If we survived the attack, the blood near the wound coagulated and the adjacent blood vessels constricted to stanch the bleeding and retain other vital fluids, while the wound became inflamed to fight infection.

Forbes

"If we survived those times, we can make it through".

Vice

If we survived Reagan's second term, this shouldn't be a problem".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "if we survive", ensure the subsequent clause logically follows as a consequence or plan contingent on that survival.

Common error

Avoid using "if we survive" in contexts where the outcome is already assured. It's best suited for situations where survival is genuinely uncertain or presents a significant challenge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if we survive" functions as a conditional clause, setting a condition for a subsequent action or outcome. This is supported by Ludwig which states that this phrase is grammatically correct. The phrase sets a requirement of surviving a situation to further actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "if we survive" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce potential outcomes contingent on overcoming a challenge. Predominantly found in news and media, it fits comfortably in both formal and informal contexts, per Ludwig. For stylistic variety, consider alternatives such as "assuming we make it" or "should we endure". When employing this phrase, be mindful to use it in contexts where the possibility of survival is genuinely uncertain.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if we pull through

Emphasizes overcoming an illness or difficult situation and recovering successfully.

if we come through this

Focuses on successfully navigating a challenging situation or crisis.

assuming we make it

Implies uncertainty about survival, focusing on the possibility of success.

provided we get through

Stresses a condition of successfully passing through a difficult time or experience.

should we endure

A more formal way of expressing survival through hardship or adversity.

assuming we live through this

Highlights the uncertainty of survival, often used in dire situations.

in the event of our survival

A formal and somewhat legalistic way to refer to the condition of surviving something

if we are spared

Suggests that survival is dependent on external forces, such as fate or luck.

should we remain alive

A more dramatic way of stating the basic condition of being alive after an event.

if we bypass

Focus on how to avoid potential damages or risks.

FAQs

How can I use "if we survive" in a sentence?

Use "if we survive" to introduce a condition or outcome that depends on successfully overcoming a challenge or surviving a dangerous situation. For example, "If we survive this storm, we'll rebuild the house stronger than before."

What are some alternatives to "if we survive"?

You can use alternatives like "assuming we make it", "should we endure", or "provided we get through" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it more appropriate to use "if we survive" or "if we lived"?

"If we survive" implies a future outcome contingent on overcoming a present danger or challenge, while "if we lived" refers to a past hypothetical situation. The choice depends on whether you are discussing a potential future or a past possibility.

What's the difference between "if we survive" and "if we lived"?

The key difference is the tense. "If we survive" refers to a present or future possibility, whereas "if we lived" describes a hypothetical situation in the past. For example, "If we survive this year, we'll buy a car" versus "If we lived in the 1800s, things would be different."