where possible

USAGE SUMMARY

"where possible" is correct and commonly used in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something should happen or can happen if it can be done. For example, "We should try to work together where possible to reach our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Gives applications where possible.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Where possible, shop locally.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Democracy where possible.

The New York Times - Magazine

Apple pie where possible.

The New York Times - Magazine

Free markets where possible.

The New York Times - Magazine

Where possible, the dead are upgraded.

The Economist

Where possible, put resources into private hands.

The Economist

So be flexible and tolerant where possible.

The New York Times

Where possible, apply overwhelming, stunning force.

The Economist

Consensually where possible.

BBC

Simplify where possible.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "where possible" to clearly state that an action is conditional and depends on specific circumstances being favorable. This prevents misunderstandings and sets realistic expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "where possible" excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound hesitant or lacking in confidence. Use it judiciously to emphasize conditionality only when necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "where possible" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a conditional aspect. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It introduces a contingency, suggesting that an action should be taken if circumstances permit, as seen in examples like, "Shop locally, where possible."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

38%

Academia

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "where possible" serves as a versatile adverbial phrase expressing conditionality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across a variety of contexts. It is particularly prevalent in Wiki and News & Media sources. Alternatives such as "if feasible" or "as far as possible" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. When using "where possible", it's best to be mindful of overuse and ensure the context genuinely warrants the expression of conditionality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if feasible

Emphasizes the practicality and achievability of an action.

if practicable

Highlights whether something is capable of being done in a real or effective way.

when feasible

Focuses on the timing and suitability of doing something.

when practicable

Similar to "if practicable" but emphasizes the timing.

to the extent possible

Specifies the degree to which something should be done, implying limitations.

as far as possible

Indicates an attempt to reach a certain limit or extent.

if circumstances permit

Highlights that the action depends on the conditions being right.

if conditions allow

Similar to "if circumstances permit", but more direct.

wherever feasible

Broader scope, indicating that something should be done in any situation where it is achievable.

as opportunity allows

Focuses on taking advantage of suitable moments or chances.

FAQs

How can I use "where possible" in a sentence?

Use "where possible" to indicate that an action should be performed if the circumstances allow it. For example, "We should use renewable energy, "where possible", to reduce our carbon footprint."

What are some alternatives to "where possible"?

You can use alternatives like "if feasible", "if practicable", or "to the extent possible" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "where possible" and "whenever possible"?

"Where possible" refers to situations or conditions that allow something to happen, while "whenever possible" refers to the timing or frequency of an action. For instance, "Apply sunscreen where possible" implies applying it to exposed skin areas, while "Apply sunscreen whenever possible" means applying it frequently.

How formal is the phrase "where possible"?

The phrase "where possible" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in business, academic, and general writing to express conditionality in a clear and concise manner.