in select circumstances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in select circumstances" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to specific situations or conditions under which something may apply or be true. Example: "In select circumstances, we may allow exceptions to our standard policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

This division of labour, in select circumstances, could be a template for future operations.

The Economist

8) Oral Agreement - Courts disregard oral prenuptial agreements except in select circumstances.

Huffington Post

They have found in favor of dietary and weight management counseling as well, at least in select circumstances; the same question pertains.

Huffington Post

The Obama Administration must instead focus on engaging and learning in select circumstances that fit within a strategic framework and a more clearly articulated and prioritized national security policy, before it preaches the new gospel worldwide.

Huffington Post

This said, the results here are observational, and we cannot rule out the beneficial role of bridging in select circumstances.

Circulation

Breaching the expectation of confidentiality provided by the doctor patient relationship should only occur in select circumstances.

Critical Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It is using the genetic tests in selected circumstances.

The New York Times

That protected list now includes someone who is actively looking for work, or someone who is the primary caretaker for the blind or disabled, or someone who is providing child care to a housing authority resident under the age of 5, in selected circumstances.

The New York Times

However, in selected circumstances, first-line systemic treatment may be more appropriate in order to avoid neurocognitive toxicities, and potential options should be evaluated in window of opportunity trials.

Seminars in Oncology

Magnetic resonance imaging was performed in selected circumstances.

BMC Women's Health

Taken together, they provide initial evidence on the feasibility of a WW approach to CE3b cysts in selected circumstances.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in select circumstances" to precisely indicate the limited situations where a statement or action is appropriate. This adds clarity and avoids overgeneralization.

Common error

Avoid using "in select circumstances" when the statement applies broadly. Ensure the condition truly applies only to a limited set of situations, otherwise consider removing it for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in select circumstances" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying the conditions under which an action or statement is valid. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in select circumstances" is a grammatically sound and useful adverbial phrase that serves to qualify statements, limiting their applicability to specific situations. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is correct. Its use is particularly common in scientific and news reporting, reflecting a need for precision and nuance. When writing, ensure that the circumstances you're referring to are genuinely selective to maintain the accuracy and impact of your statement. Consider alternatives like "under certain conditions" or "in specific situations" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under certain conditions

Emphasizes the presence of specific conditions that must be met.

in specific situations

Highlights particular situations where something is applicable.

in particular cases

Focuses on individual cases or instances.

in exceptional cases

Stresses the rarity or infrequency of the circumstances.

when the situation warrants

Highlights the need for a justifying situation.

where applicable

Indicates that something is only relevant in certain situations.

under limited conditions

Emphasizes restrictions on the applicability.

in restricted scenarios

Highlights scenarios that are limited or controlled.

subject to certain criteria

Highlights the importance of meeting particular criteria.

contingent on specific factors

Emphasizes the dependence on particular factors.

FAQs

What does "in select circumstances" mean?

The phrase "in select circumstances" means under specific or particular conditions; only in certain situations.

How can I use "in select circumstances" in a sentence?

You can use "in select circumstances" to specify the limited conditions under which a statement or action is applicable. For example: "In select circumstances, we may offer a full refund."

What are some alternatives to "in select circumstances"?

Alternatives include "under certain conditions", "in specific situations", or "in particular cases".

When is it appropriate to use "in select circumstances" rather than "in all circumstances"?

"In select circumstances" is used when something is only true or applicable in a limited number of situations, whereas "in all circumstances" indicates universal applicability.