in case there is

USAGE SUMMARY

'in case there is' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when one contemplates the possibility of a certain situation. For example: "I'm going to pack my umbrella in case there is rain tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"That's why we use the word 'probable,' " he says, "in case there is another explanation".

Science Magazine

In case there is an external stimulus, neocortical dynamics indicates a very different picture.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

"In case there is a contractor who is not paying the right wage please contact the labour commissioner," she says.

BBC

In case there is a pathological lymph node involvement, additional nodal level will be covered as indicated.

BMC Cancer

In case there is non such option, obtaining your casino license must be your first step.

WikiHow

In case there is a greenish fluid on the ground, you can be sure that there are leaks.

WikiHow

"Just in case there is traffic," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

In case there is no minimizer, we determine the asymptotic behavior of minimizing sequences.

Journal of Functional Analysis

Another is already putting some cash back into stocks in case there is a negotiated settlement.

The New York Times

And I just said let me clear something up here, in case there is any doubt.

The Washington Post

And I don't want to leave the house in case there is a call.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in case there is" to introduce a precautionary measure or plan, ensuring clarity in expressing potential contingencies.

Common error

Don't use "in case there is" when a simple "if" clause would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound wordy and less direct. For example, instead of "Take an umbrella in case there is rain", just say "Take an umbrella if it rains."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in case there is" functions as a conditional clause introducer, setting up a hypothetical scenario for which a subsequent action is taken. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this function in various contexts, highlighting its role in expressing precaution or preparation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

34%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in case there is" is a very common and grammatically correct construction used to introduce a potential situation and express precautionary measures. According to Ludwig, this phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts, reflecting its versatility. When writing, it's important to avoid redundancy and consider simpler alternatives like "if" when appropriate. While "in case there is" serves as a solid choice for most situations, remember that formal contexts may benefit from alternatives like "in the event that there is". Through its analysis of countless examples, Ludwig helps to better understand the nuances of this phrase, to ensure that you use the best language in all kinds of situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In the event that there is

This is a more formal substitute, suitable for official or legal contexts.

Should there be

This is a more concise and formal inversion, also expressing a hypothetical condition.

If there should be

This alternative uses a more formal and somewhat less common construction to express a hypothetical situation.

Assuming there is

This phrase sets a condition upon which something else depends.

If it turns out there is

This option implies a discovery of something previously unknown.

If it happens that there is

This option adds emphasis to the possibility of an event occurring.

On the off chance that there is

This alternative suggests a lower probability of the event happening.

In anticipation of there being

This suggests preparing for a future event.

For fear that there is

Expresses taking precautions due to worry or concern about something happening.

Lest there be

A formal, somewhat archaic way to express avoiding a negative outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "in case there is" in a sentence?

Use "in case there is" to introduce a potential situation for which you are preparing. For example, "I'm saving some money "in case there is" an emergency".

What are some alternatives to "in case there is"?

Alternatives include phrases like "if there should be", "should there be", or "in the event that there is", depending on the level of formality required.

Is it always necessary to use "in case there is", or can I use "if"?

While often interchangeable with "if", "in case there is" emphasizes preparation for a possibility. Using "if" is generally more direct for simple conditional statements. For example, "Call me if you need help" is simpler than "Call me in case there is a need for help".

What's the difference between "in case there is" and "in the event that there is"?

"In case there is" is more informal and common, while "in the event that there is" is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts. Both express a condition or possibility.