in case it is

USAGE SUMMARY

"in case it is" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that may or may not happen, or may or may not be true. For example, "I'm ordering an extra pizza in case it is not enough for everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Likewise, line (8) states that b can only be accepted in case it is defended against its attackers.

Artificial Intelligence

I am enclosing another more official letter, in case it is needed.

Princeton University

Inexpensive water will be for sale in case it is a hot day.

The New York Times

Avoid door in case it is neighbor (or answer in disguise).

The New Yorker

He says he habitually arrives for an early service in case it is cancelled.

The Guardian

Correction officials say they will hold onto the jail in case it is again needed.

The New York Times

Snowden is satisfied by the explanation, but disconnects the phone in case it is bugged.

The Guardian - Film

In case it is not glaringly obvious, I write a personal finance column for a living.

The New York Times

Avoid answering phone in case it is Michael (or answer in disguise).

The New Yorker

Clearly, Israel must maintain defence forces in case it is attacked by traditional armies.

The Guardian - Opinion

This helps create a scarcity value: better buy now in case it is gone tomorrow.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in case it is", ensure the subsequent clause clearly outlines the precautionary action to be taken. For example, "Bring an umbrella in case it is raining."

Common error

Avoid using "in case it is" without specifying a concrete action or preparation. For instance, saying "I'm worried in case it is" lacks a practical follow-up. Instead, clarify: "I'm saving money in case it is needed for an emergency."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in case it is" functions as a conditional conjunction, introducing a clause that specifies a potential situation for which a precaution or action is being taken. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in case it is" is a versatile and frequently used conditional conjunction that introduces a potential situation requiring precaution. It is considered grammatically correct by Ludwig and sees common usage across diverse contexts like News & Media, Science, and Academia, according to Ludwig's examples. To ensure clarity, always follow "in case it is" with a specific action or preparation to avoid ambiguity. While maintaining a generally neutral register, its formality can shift based on the overall tone of the writing. For alternatives, "in the event that it is" offers a more formal option, whereas "just in case it's" is more casual.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the event that it is

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes preparation for a specific possibility.

provided that it is

Indicates a condition that must be met for something else to occur.

if it should be

This alternative uses 'should' to imply a slightly lower probability or a more hypothetical situation.

should it be

This option presents a more formal and concise way of expressing the same contingency.

if it turns out to be

This emphasizes the discovery aspect of the condition, focusing on a future revelation.

if it happens to be

Adds emphasis on the possibility of something occurring by chance.

assuming that it is

This phrase introduces an assumption as the basis for a subsequent action or decision.

on the chance that it is

Highlights the speculative nature of the condition, suggesting it might be unlikely.

lest it be

A more formal and literary alternative, indicating a concern to prevent something.

just in the possibility that it is

Stresses the slight chance or possibility that the condition might be true.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "in case it is" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases such as "in the event that it is" or "should it be".

What's a more casual way to say "in case it is"?

Informally, you might say "just in case it's" or "if it happens to be".

Is "in case it is" interchangeable with "if it is"?

While similar, "in case it is" typically implies a precautionary measure, whereas "if it is" introduces a general condition. For example, "Take an umbrella in case it is raining" suggests preparing for rain, while "If it is raining, the game will be canceled" states a condition for cancellation.

How to use "in case it is" correctly in a sentence?

Ensure that the sentence includes a clear action or preparation related to the condition. A correct example: "Double-check the reservation "in case it is" not properly booked."