if we were able

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if we were able" is correct usage in written English.
You can use it when you are talking about a hypothetical situation - something that might happen, if certain conditions were met. For example, "If we were able, we would take a trip around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"I believe that, if we were able to do it again, it would be absolutely fantastic.

The Guardian - Sport

Even if we were able to shade the planet, the technology would only mask the problem.

The Guardian

Even if we were able to measure crude numbers, these provide no context.

The Guardian

But what if we were able to double, or even triple, that rate?

The Guardian

If we were able to ask Spock, he might even consider the contradiction highly illogical.

The Guardian - Film

But we had loads of fitness tests and medicals to see if we were able.

The New York Times

"If we were able to butt heads in a positive way, I relished that".

The New York Times

"If we were able to lend into the economy, it could have a substantial impact".

The New York Times

"If we were able to do this, I'm sure all our 1.6 million residents would all be rich.

The Guardian - Travel

"If we were able to spend $150 million or $130 million, we'd win every year, too," Thomas said.

The New York Times - Sports

It was a big event if we were able to get to Salt Lake City once a year.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if we were able" to express a hypothetical ability or possibility, often in the context of discussing potential outcomes or scenarios. Ensure the subsequent clause clearly outlines the result or action contingent on this ability.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase in situations that require a different tense. For instance, do not use "if we were able" when discussing a past, realized ability; instead, use "if we had been able".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if we were able" functions as a conditional clause introducing a hypothetical scenario. It sets up a condition that, if met, would lead to a specific outcome. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if we were able" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce hypothetical scenarios and potential conditions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various forms of communication, from formal business reports to informal discussions. When using this phrase, ensure the subsequent clause clearly outlines the result or action contingent on this ability, and be mindful of maintaining consistent tense agreement. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate "if we were able" into your writing to express conditions and explore possibilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if we had the capacity

Focuses on the possession of the necessary capacity or resources.

assuming we could

Highlights an assumption of ability as a starting point.

should we be capable

Emphasizes capability with a touch of formality and condition.

in the event we could

Introduces a scenario where the ability is realized.

provided we were empowered

Stresses the condition of being granted power or authorization.

given our potential to

Focuses on the inherent possibility or potential to achieve something.

on the condition we were equipped

Specifies the need for equipment or resources to enable the action.

contingent on our aptitude

Highlights that the ability is contingent on inherent skill.

supposing we possessed the means

Emphasizes the availability of required resources or methods.

granting us the facility

Highlights the provision of facilities or opportunities that enable action.

FAQs

How can I use "if we were able" in a sentence?

Use "if we were able" to introduce a hypothetical situation or condition. For example, "If we were able to reduce costs, we could increase profits."

What are some alternatives to "if we were able"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "assuming we could", "provided we were empowered", or "should we be capable", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "if we were able" formal or informal?

"If we were able" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure.

What is the difference between "if we are able" and "if we were able"?

"If we are able" refers to a present or future possibility, whereas "if we were able" often refers to a hypothetical or counterfactual situation. The latter implies a condition that is not necessarily true or realistic.