when it is possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when it is possible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are discussing situations in which something may be achievable, contingent upon certain factors or conditions. For example: "We will try to accommodate all requests when it is possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Talk with your parents about when it is possible to be flexible on treatment times.

Stanford University

"When it is possible," he says, "I choose to have a quiet life".

The New York Times

Flood control is not always possible, and even when it is possible it involves heavy investment.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Not when it is possible to have three completely different matches within 90 minutes.

The Guardian - Sport

"General Flynn is eager to proceed [to sentencing] when it is possible.

The Washington Post

"The benefits of buying commercial when it is possible have been evident for a long time".

The New York Times

A probabilistic approach, when it is possible to have sufficient data on the quality of the rock mass, leads to:.

Computers and Geotechnics

In particular, when it is possible to use Archimedean copulas, analytical expressions for Pareto front estimators are available.

Information Sciences

This approach has practical applications when it is possible to extract a problem with eigenfunctions expressed in closed form.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

She also keeps tabs on the park's wildlife, trying, when it is possible, to fight nature with nature.

The New York Times

"When it is possible to buy for a reasonable price players from that level we shall do that.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when it is possible" to introduce a condition or qualification to a statement, making it clear that the action or event is not always guaranteed but depends on specific circumstances. This ensures accuracy and avoids overgeneralizations.

Common error

Avoid using "when it is possible" as a crutch for avoiding direct action. Instead of saying "Improvements will be made when it is possible", specify who will make the improvements and under what conditions: "The engineering team will implement the upgrades when the necessary resources are allocated."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when it is possible" functions as an adverbial clause of condition, modifying a main clause by specifying the circumstances under which the action or state described in the main clause will occur. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

31%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when it is possible" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a condition or contingency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including science, news, and academia. While it maintains a neutral register suitable for most writing styles, being mindful of the specific context and audience will allow choosing even more tailored phrases. You can consider options like "if feasible" or "where appropriate" for conciseness or formality, respectively. Avoid overusing passive constructions and always aim to specify the conditions that make something possible for clearer and more impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if feasible

This alternative is more concise and emphasizes practicality or feasibility.

if circumstances allow

This phrase highlights the role of external conditions or situations.

as and when feasible

This option stresses the timing and the feasibility of the action.

where appropriate

This suggests that the action should be taken only in suitable or fitting situations.

should the opportunity arise

This highlights the chance or occasion as a key factor.

contingent upon feasibility

This alternative makes explicit the dependence on feasibility.

subject to the possibility

This emphasizes the conditional nature of the action, dependent on something becoming possible.

if the situation permits

This focuses on whether the current state of affairs allows for something to happen.

depending on the circumstances

This highlights reliance on situational factors for something to be possible.

as far as practicable

This phrase introduces a degree of limitation based on practicality.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when it is possible" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "if circumstances allow", "subject to feasibility", or "where appropriate". These options often suit professional or academic contexts better.

Is there a shorter way to say "when it is possible"?

Yes, you can use concise alternatives like "if feasible" or "where possible". These options are direct and efficient, suitable for various types of writing.

How does "when it is possible" differ from "if it is possible"?

"When it is possible" implies a sense of timing or opportunity, suggesting that something might become possible at some point. "If it is possible", on the other hand, focuses more generally on the condition of possibility without necessarily implying a specific time.

Can "when it is possible" be used in all types of writing?

Yes, "when it is possible" is generally appropriate for various writing styles, though the specific context might benefit from more formal or informal alternatives. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to choose the most effective phrasing.