when circumstances permit

USAGE SUMMARY

"when circumstances permit" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something can only happen or be done if certain conditions or situations allow for it. Example: We will postpone the project until a later date, when circumstances permit us to gather all the necessary resources and team members.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

On this scenario, the BBC's funding and independence will be restored when circumstances permit.

The Guardian

Old Trafford regulars should enjoy his penchant for marauding down the flank when circumstances permit.

The Guardian - Sport

Such occasions show that even if Britain's clout is declining, it can still lead when circumstances permit.

The Economist

Additionally, if the death toll of a particular incident is in dispute, such data provides a detailed starting point for further third-party investigations as and when circumstances permit.

The Guardian - Opinion

These precautions include doing everything feasible to verify that the objects of attack are military targets and not civilians or civilian objects, and giving "effective advance warning" of attacks when circumstances permit.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Many Bulgarians expected Tsar Boris to break with the German alliance when circumstances permitted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Iraq W.M.D. picture was complicated, but certainly Hussein retained the ambition to reconstitute his programs when circumstances permitted.

The New York Times - Books

This, of course, does not mean that the people did not visit relatives when circumstances permitted or when certain religious and ceremonial activities demanded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He continued to play for Bolton when circumstances permitted it, but when the club made a formal request for his services the RAF refused.

Wikipedia

No core vote strategy, expand the middle class and, in Mandy's own words, bring the top rate of income tax down "when financial circumstances permit".

The Guardian - Opinion

When clinical circumstances permit the parents of a potentially eligible baby will be approached before birth.

BMC Pediatrics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when circumstances permit" to clearly indicate that an action or decision is dependent on external factors or conditions. This adds a layer of precision and avoids assumptions.

Common error

While grammatically sound, using "when circumstances permit" in very casual conversations can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "if we can" or "if possible" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when circumstances permit" functions as an adverbial clause of condition, modifying a verb or verb phrase to indicate the conditions under which the action can occur. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is a usable construction in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Academia

17%

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when circumstances permit" functions as an adverbial clause of condition and is employed to express contingency. While generally correct, its formality might be unsuitable for very casual conversation. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is a usable construction in English and appears across diverse sources, with prevalence in news, encyclopedias, science and academic domains. When aiming to indicate conditionality, consider alternatives such as "if the situation allows" or "as conditions allow" to enhance clarity or adjust the tone of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if the situation allows

This alternative is less formal and more direct.

as conditions allow

This emphasizes external conditions enabling an action.

when the time is right

This alternative focuses on timing and suitability.

should the opportunity arise

Highlights the chance or possibility of something happening.

if feasible

Focuses on the practicality and achievability of an action.

as and when possible

Emphasizes both timing and possibility.

depending on the situation

Broader in scope, covering various potential scenarios.

subject to conditions

Highlights that something is dependent on meeting certain criteria.

contingent upon the situation

More formal way of saying depending on the situation.

when all is said and done

This implies a long-term perspective on eventual opportunities.

FAQs

How can I use "when circumstances permit" in a sentence?

The phrase "when circumstances permit" is used to express that an action will be taken only if the situation allows it. For example, "We will review your application "when circumstances permit"".

What are some alternatives to "when circumstances permit"?

You can use alternatives like "if the situation allows", "as conditions allow", or "depending on the situation" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "when circumstances permit" or "if possible"?

"When circumstances permit" is more formal and specific, indicating a reliance on external conditions. "If possible" is more general. Choose the phrase that best suits the tone and context of your writing.

What does "when circumstances permit" imply about the action being discussed?

It implies that the action is not guaranteed and is subject to external factors or conditions that must be favorable for the action to take place.