1
Core condition
Introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.
Example
In the event that the sensor fails, a backup will record the temperature.
in the event that
/ɪn ði ɪˈvent ðæt/ · in thee ih-VENT thatconditional subordinator
Introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.
Use in the event that to express this relationship precisely: introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.
What in the event that Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Clause-level frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The gates close automatically in the event that flooding occurs.
3
Limit on the claim
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
In the event that the vote is tied, the chair casts the deciding ballot.
Use in the event that Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
In the event that the sensor fails, a backup will record the temperature.
The gates close automatically in the event that flooding occurs.
In the event that the vote is tied, the chair casts the deciding ballot.
Precision Matters
In the event that overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in the event that
vs.Means introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.
in the absence of
Means when a person, thing, condition, or evidence is lacking.
in the event that
vs.Means introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.
insofar as
Means limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
in the event that
vs.Means introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.
even though
Means introduce a true circumstance that might have been expected to prevent the main result but did not.
in the event that
vs.Means introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.
due to
Means caused by or attributable to a stated factor.
Test in the event that in Context
The reserve procedure applies if the possible condition occurs.
1
___ the primary sample is contaminated, the laboratory will analyse the reserve sample.