when and if

USAGE SUMMARY

"when and if" is a grammatically correct phrase in written English.
It is used to express the conditional nature of an action or event. It is often used when there is uncertainty about whether or not something will happen, and emphasizes that the action or event will only occur under certain conditions. Example: "I will only apply for the job when and if I am qualified for it." This sentence means that the speaker will only apply for the job if they meet the qualifications. If they do not meet the qualifications, they will not apply.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Be sure to stop when and if you feel tired.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But what happens when and if negotiations start?

The Washington Post

But when and if it snows is always a wonder.

The New York Times

We hold those accountable when, and if, it should occur.

The Washington Post

When and if I come back, I'll be playing.

The New York Times - Sports

"When and if he is, we'll decide how to proceed".

The New York Times

Recognition, when and if it comes, is welcome.

The Guardian

Their use of the Plan will be evaluated when and if the issue arises.

Harvard University

How can the parser reliably predict when and if modules get (de- activated?

Stanford University

I began studying this issue by asking why people disagree when and if violence is appropriate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Please describe the problem, when, and (if relevant) the machine and software involved in the problem.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when and if" to clearly indicate that an action is dependent on both a specific time and a condition being met, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "when and if" excessively in your writing. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or uncertain. Consider using simpler conditional phrases like "if" or "when" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when and if" functions as a conditional conjunction, linking two conditions that must be met for an action or event to occur. Ludwig provides examples that show this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

22%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "when and if" is a grammatically sound and commonly used conjunction to express a dual condition of time and circumstance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys that an action will only occur when both a specific time arrives and a condition is met. Found frequently in news, academic, and scientific sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse writing contexts. While useful for emphasizing contingency, writers should avoid overuse for clarity. Alternatives such as "if and when the situation allows" can provide stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if and when the situation allows

Adds the element of timing and circumstance, not just possibility.

if it happens

A simpler way to express the condition of something occurring.

in the event that

Introduces a condition that, if met, will trigger a particular outcome.

if the time comes

Focuses on a potential future time when a specific action might be necessary.

once it becomes a reality

Emphasizes the point at which a potential event actually happens.

should the occasion arise

Emphasizes the possibility of an event occurring, prompting a specific response.

depending on whether it transpires

Indicates that a decision or action is subject to the outcome of an event.

assuming that it occurs

Highlights the assumption that an event might take place.

on the off chance that

Implies a low probability of something happening, but prepares for it nonetheless.

contingent upon its occurrence

Stresses that an action is dependent on something else happening.

FAQs

How can I use "when and if" in a sentence?

Use "when and if" to express that something will happen only if a certain time comes and a condition is met. For example, "I will go to the party when and if I finish my work."

What is an alternative to using "when and if"?

Alternatives include "if and when the situation allows", "in the event that", or simply using "if" or "when" depending on the context.

Is "when and if" redundant?

While "when and if" might seem redundant, it emphasizes both the timing and the condition necessary for something to occur. Using both words highlights the uncertainty and the specific circumstances required.

Is there a difference between "when and if" and "if and when"?

The phrases "when and if" and "if and when" are largely interchangeable. The choice often comes down to personal preference or the specific flow of the sentence. Both emphasize the conditional and temporal aspects of an event.