in reasonable condition

USAGE SUMMARY

"in reasonable condition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not perfect but is still acceptable or usable. For example, "This car is ten years old, but it is still in reasonable condition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Looks very old, but still in reasonable condition.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A complete set of the Dictionary of National Biography in reasonable condition was harder to find.

The Guardian - Books

For something built in 1910, Mr. Galloway said, "structurally, it probably is in reasonable condition".

The Economist

Colonials in reasonable condition and newer contemporary homes on one-acre lots range from $625,000 to $1 million.

The New York Times

Hemmings shows it off with the collection's most recent acquisition, a similarly shaped aluminum camping trailer from the late 1940's, unrestored but in reasonable condition.

The New York Times

The dissidents, all of whom suffered health problems in prison, appeared in reasonable condition after seven years behind bars and were clean shaven and wearing freshly ironed shirts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

In reasonable conditions (targets closer than 50 cm from the camera and moving at an average speed), bee textures were efficiently captured, and consequently, a good pair matching was achieved between left and right images.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Assuming the convergence of the iterative estimator in reasonable conditions, (22) implies that σ Δ h 2 → σ n 2 p + N, (28) almost surely, as P e  → 0.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Even in reasonable conditions -- warmth, sunshine and a little wind -- no one fared better than a 67.

Los Angeles Times

During the 18th century the building was still in a reasonable condition and in 1789 an order was received make it ready to receive French prisoners, although it is unlikely they ever arrived.

Wikipedia

The cabins were certainly not the luxury option they had been once, but they were still in a reasonable condition and comfortable enough.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the state of an item, consider if "in reasonable condition" accurately reflects its level of functionality and appearance. If it's nearly new, consider "excellent condition". If it's barely functional, "poor condition" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "in reasonable condition" when describing something that is clearly damaged or non-functional. Ensure the description aligns with the actual state of the item to avoid misleading the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in reasonable condition" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to describe its state. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It indicates that something is not perfect but is acceptable or usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

21%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in reasonable condition" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed adjectival phrase used to describe the state of something that is acceptable or usable, though not necessarily perfect. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It finds its primary application in describing the state or quality of objects, places, or even individuals. It presents a neutral register making it versatile across diverse contexts, from news reports to casual conversations. Though quite neutral, it is more suitable for business communications than overly informal or scientific works. Consider alternatives like "in acceptable shape" or "in fair order" for nuanced expressions. Remember to align the description with the actual condition to avoid misrepresentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in acceptable shape

Replaces "condition" with "shape", focusing on the general state of something.

in fair order

Uses "order" instead of "condition", implying a state of arrangement and maintenance.

in working order

Focuses specifically on the functionality of something, implying it is operational.

in decent nick

Uses a more informal term, "nick", to describe the state or condition.

in serviceable state

Replaces "condition" with "state", highlighting its usability.

in tolerable form

Emphasizes that the condition, while not ideal, is bearable or acceptable.

in satisfactory repair

Specifically refers to the state of maintenance and repair.

adequately maintained

Focuses on the aspect of maintenance, suggesting that it has been kept in an acceptable condition.

passably good state

Highlights that the state is good enough to pass requirements.

sufficiently sound

Implies that something is robust and reliable enough for its intended purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "in reasonable condition" in a sentence?

You can use "in reasonable condition" to describe an item or a place that is not perfect but is still acceptable. For example, "The used car was "in reasonable condition" for its age", or "The apartment was "in reasonable condition", although it needed some updating".

What's a more formal alternative to "in reasonable condition"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "in satisfactory condition" or "in serviceable state". These alternatives convey a similar meaning while maintaining a professional register.

Is there a difference between "in reasonable condition" and "in good condition"?

Yes, "in good condition" implies a higher level of quality and maintenance than "in reasonable condition". Something "in good condition" is well-maintained and shows little wear, while something ""in reasonable condition"" is acceptable but may show some signs of age or use.

What can I say if something is worse than "in reasonable condition"?

If something is worse than ""in reasonable condition"", you might describe it as "in poor condition", "damaged", or needing repair. The specific phrase depends on the extent of the wear and tear.