so in case

USAGE SUMMARY

"so in case" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use "so in case" to introduce a contingency or a scenario in which something else should happen. For example, "I always bring an umbrella when I go outside, so in case it starts to rain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

So, in case you see that it's the same, then that's great.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Check every hour or so in case heat escalates too much or chips need replenishing.

The New York Times - Food

So in case any CEOs of mid-sized airlines are in any doubt: IAG is coming for you.

The Economist

12.22pm BST So, in case you've just arrived at this live blog and don't know what's going on.

The Guardian - Tech

So, in case you didn't get it the first time, hear this: Suburbia is soulless, vacuous, downright insane!

The New York Times - Books

I detect no bathrobes, so in case I've not packed my best PJs, I pick the twin.

The Guardian - Travel

So, in case you haven't heard, it's Stan Smiths out, Converse in, when it comes to fashion's sneaker of choice.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So in case a "non lead" made a comment it was understood that he/she did not speak for the company and it was just a personal opinion.

Harvard University

So in case you end up at, say, the Paul Revere House in Boston with a teenager who is mum, the app offers trivia that could spur discussion.

The New York Times

So in case the driver is over-speeding, the first sensor tries to cut the speed.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So, in case you've forgotten, it was a play in three acts.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "so in case" to clearly introduce a potential situation and the corresponding action or precaution. It helps readers understand the cause-and-effect relationship you are establishing.

Common error

Avoid using "so in case" when a simple "in case" would suffice. The "so" can sometimes be redundant if the sentence already clearly establishes the connection between the condition and the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so in case" functions as a subordinating conjunction, introducing a clause that expresses a condition or contingency. As Ludwig examples show, it connects a potential situation with a planned action or precaution. Ludwig AI confirms this usage as grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "so in case" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that introduces a contingency or possible event. Ludwig AI affirms that its function is to connect a potential situation with a corresponding action. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and wikis, its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide range of contexts. When writing, remember to use "so in case" to effectively express preparedness or anticipation, while avoiding redundancy where "in case" alone would suffice. Consider alternatives like "in the event that" for more formal situations. This guide provides a complete overview to ensure confident and accurate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the event that

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the hypothetical nature of the condition.

if by any chance

This option suggests a less likely scenario.

if it happens that

This alternative directly states a hypothetical event, making it a more explicit condition.

in view of the possibility

This highlights the consideration of a possible future occurrence.

on the off chance that

This phrase emphasizes the low probability of the condition occurring.

given the potential for

This version is more formal and emphasizes the possibility of something occurring.

should it occur that

This alternative is highly formal and emphasizes a potential, often undesirable, event.

in anticipation of

This focuses on preparing for a possible future event, not simply the condition.

for fear that

This alternative implies a concern or worry about the potential outcome.

lest

A more archaic and formal synonym expressing prevention of something undesirable.

FAQs

How can I use "so in case" in a sentence?

You can use "so in case" to introduce a condition for a specific action. For example, "I'm bringing a map, so in case we get lost."

What's a good alternative to using "so in case"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in the event that", "if by any chance", or simply "just in case", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is it redundant to use "so" with "in case"?

While "in case" alone is often sufficient, "so in case" is commonly used to emphasize the connection between a potential situation and the corresponding action, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

What's the difference between "so that" and "so in case"?

"So that" indicates purpose or result (e.g., "I saved money so that I could travel"), while "so in case" introduces a condition or contingency (e.g., "I took an umbrella, so in case it rained").