on the condition that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the condition that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when proposing a deal that is contingent on something. For example, "I will let you borrow my car on the condition that you return it clean and on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The former is focused on external appearance; the latter is focused on the condition that creates the external appearance.

Huffington Post

Clodine says she'll share her story, but on the condition that her identity be concealed.

Unicef

The king allowed him to leave on the condition that he return in one year.

Wikipedia

He spoke on the condition that he not be named.

The New York Times

But only on the condition that you stay in school.

The New York Times

He spoke on the condition that his name not be published.

The New York Times

She spoke to a reporter on the condition that her name not be used.

The New York Times

She finally agreed to go out with him on the condition that he learn to knit.

The New York Times

The leaders spoke on the condition that they would not be named.

The New York Times

Presumably that agreement was extracted on the condition that Ismail Khan be removed as governor.

The New York Times

He spoke on the condition that his name not be used.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the condition that" to clearly state the preconditions for an agreement, ensuring all parties understand the requirements. For example, "The funding will be released on the condition that the project meets its first milestone by the end of the quarter."

Common error

Avoid using "on the condition that" without clearly defining the scope and consequences of the condition. Vague conditions can lead to disputes. For example, instead of saying "I'll help you, on the condition that you behave", specify the expected behavior and consequences of non-compliance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the condition that" serves as an adverbial clause introducer, specifying the circumstances under which a particular action or event will occur. As Ludwig AI confirms, it sets a clear prerequisite. Examples in Ludwig show it used in contracts, agreements, and stipulations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the condition that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a crucial requirement or stipulation for an agreement or action to be valid. As Ludwig AI accurately states, it sets up a clear prerequisite. Its usage is predominantly found in news, formal business, and wiki contexts, rendering it suitable for professional and formal settings. To ensure clarity, always clearly define the condition and its consequences. Alternatives such as "provided that" and "as long as" can be used, depending on the level of formality required. With a high expert rating and frequent occurrence across authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, mastering the use of "on the condition that" will undoubtedly enhance the precision and formality of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provided that

Indicates a stipulation or requirement that must be met for something else to happen, similar to a legal or formal agreement.

subject to the provision that

Emphasizes a formal or legal agreement where a specific provision must be adhered to.

with the understanding that

Highlights a mutual agreement or expectation, implying that both parties are aware of and agree to certain terms.

as long as

Expresses a condition that must be maintained for something to continue or remain valid.

contingent upon

States that something depends on a particular condition or event occurring.

dependent on

Indicates that the outcome or occurrence of something is reliant on a specific condition.

given that

Introduces a condition or fact that is assumed to be true or accepted as a basis for further action.

conditional on

Highlights that something will only happen if a specific condition is met.

but only if

Emphasizes that something will only occur if a specific condition is satisfied and not otherwise.

assuming that

Introduces a condition that is assumed to be true, influencing a subsequent action or decision.

FAQs

How can I use "on the condition that" in a sentence?

Use "on the condition that" to introduce a prerequisite or stipulation for an action or agreement. For instance, "The university will grant you a degree "on the condition that" you complete all required courses".

What are some alternatives to "on the condition that"?

Alternatives include "provided that", "as long as", or "contingent upon". The choice depends on the specific context and level of formality.

Is it more formal to say "on the condition that" or "if"?

"On the condition that" is generally more formal than "if". Use "on the condition that" in contracts, legal documents, or any situation where precision is important. "If" is suitable for everyday conversation.

What is the difference between "on the condition that" and "with the understanding that"?

"On the condition that" implies a strict requirement that must be met, whereas "with the understanding that" suggests a mutual agreement or expectation. The former is a non-negotiable prerequisite; the latter is a shared understanding.