in case of default

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in case of default" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is generally used to refer to an event or circumstance in which someone fails to abide by the terms of a contract. For example, "The company requires a large security deposit in case of default on the loan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

The agency will repay the lender in case of default.

The New York Times

Mentions a new law, incorporated into the Bankruptcy Act which establishes procedures in case of default.

The New Yorker

Michael Werner of Sanford C. Bernstein, an investment bank, also points out that such a reform would help by giving legal remedy in case of default.

The Economist

Though the swaps pay off only in case of default, the swings in price also allow buyers to hedge against fluctuations in the price of the underlying bonds.

The New York Times

The final bill must ensure that derivatives are traded on transparent exchanges and processed through third-party clearinghouses to guarantee payment in case of default.

The New York Times

When a lender files a lien, it places the lender in a position to be able to take a borrower's assets in case of default.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"Under current law in cases of default, a co-op's claim for unpaid maintenance takes precedence over most other claims, bank loans, personal debt, credit card debt," he said.

The New York Times

This means that in case of a default, the investor gets his principal and interest.

The New York Times

That means analysts would be able to run their own calculations of what would happen in case of a default.

The New York Times

That means analysts would be able to run their own assessments of what would happen in case of a default.

The New York Times

In case of a default, the city is first in line to recover outstanding real estate taxes or other charges, followed by the mortgage lender.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting legal or financial documents, clearly specify actions or protections that will be enacted "in case of default" to prevent ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "in case of default" when you mean "due to default." The former anticipates a potential event, while the latter describes a consequence of an event that has already occurred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in case of default" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a condition or contingency. According to Ludwig AI, it is generally used when referring to a situation where someone fails to abide by the terms of a contract.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in case of default" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to specify actions or protections triggered by a potential failure to meet obligations. According to Ludwig AI, it is typically found in legal and financial contexts. Usage ranges from neutral to formal, depending on the specific source and context. When using the phrase, be mindful to avoid confusing it with "due to default", which indicates a consequence of an already occurred event. Consider related alternatives such as "in the event of default" or "should a default occur" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the event of default

Uses "event" instead of "case", implying a specific occurrence.

upon default

Emphasizes the moment the default occurs, shifting the temporal focus.

if there is a default

Offers a clearer, more direct conditional construction.

should a default occur

Introduces a hypothetical scenario with a formal tone.

on the occurrence of default

Replaces "in case" with "on the occurrence", making it more formal.

if default happens

Simplifies the structure with more common vocabulary.

when default arises

Replaces "in case" with "when", changing the sentence's structure.

in situations of default

Highlights the broader circumstances surrounding the default.

in a default scenario

Focuses on the situation as a whole, rather than the specific instance.

where default takes place

Changes the verb from "occur" to "take place", altering the tone.

FAQs

How can I use "in case of default" in a sentence?

Use "in case of default" to describe actions taken when a borrower fails to meet their obligations. For example, "The lender has the right to seize assets "in case of default"".

What are some alternatives to "in case of default"?

Alternatives include "in the event of default", "should a default occur", or "upon default". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "in case of default" or "if there is a default"?

"In case of default" is more formal and often used in legal or financial contexts. "If there is a default" is simpler and more direct, suitable for general communication.

What is the difference between "in case of default" and "due to default"?

"In case of default" anticipates a potential failure to meet obligations. "Due to default" describes something that happens as a direct result of a default that has already occurred.