Do you want to know how to tell people something will happen with a specific event?
If you’re concerned that “in the event” is a bit too informal or insincere for this function, you’re in the right place.
This article will teach you what to use instead of “in the event.”
Other Ways to Say “In the Event”
- Should the occasion arise
- If
- Whenever
- When the need arises
- In case
- If the situation comes up
- Under the circumstances
- If and when
- In case of
- Upon
- Provided
- On the occasion
- In the instance
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- “In the event” is a great phrase to use and works well in formal situations before something happens.
- “Should the occasion arise” is a useful formal synonym if you’re trying to mix things up.
- “If” works well as a one-word, informal alternative if that suits your writing better.
Please read on to learn how to say “in the event” in other ways. We’ve explained more relating to the best formal and informal options to help you understand what works.
Also, the final heading will explain whether “in the event” is correct. So, if you’ve come to learn more about that, it might be worth skipping ahead to see what that’s about!
Should the Occasion Arise (Formal)
You can use “should the occasion arise” as a formal way to say “in the event.”
This is a professional way to show that something may or may not happen. If that thing does happen, this phrase allows you to have a failsafe that will activate when it does.
Generally, this works when contacting an employee. It is a confident phrase that suggests you have a good grasp of a situation and want people to be ready for anything.
So, you can check out this email sample to learn a bit more:
Dear Jon,
I have received news that Katie may have to withdraw from the project.
Should the occasion arise, I’ll need you to take over.
Kind regards,
Max Bradshaw
It also works well when writing an essay. You can use it when you want the reader to be aware of a specific event that could occur but that you’ve also planned for it, just in case.
This essay sample should also help you to understand things:
The process could still be hindered by external sources. Should the occasion arise, I have contingencies that will take over.
If (Informal)
For something a little simpler, use “if” as another way to say “in the event.”
Generally, this is a more informal phrase that works well in most written cases. It’s more informal because it’s a simple, one-word alternative.
It’s quite versatile, though. So, while we’re using it as an informal option, there are still plenty of functions for “if” in a formal situation.
We recommend using this when contacting a coworker. It lets them know you’ve planned for any situation and would like everyone to be prepared.
Check out this sample email if you still need help:
Hey Tony,
If I’m right and this goes ahead, we need to be ready.
I’ve got a few ideas that I’d like to run by you over lunch if that works.
Thanks so much,
Reilly Amber
You can also use it in a text message to friends or family. It’s quite a well-known and common word, so there’s really no reason to avoid using it if it makes sense.
So, this message sample will clear some things up about it:
If this is what I think it is, we should be careful! I don’t want anyone to make any mistakes that get us in trouble!
Is It Correct to Say “In the Event”?
It is correct to say “in the event.” It’s a good way to set up a contingency plan if something was to occur (even though it’s unlikely to happen).
You can review the following sample to learn how to use “in the event” in a sentence:
Dear All,
In the event that the takeover goes ahead, I need you to be ready.
I have a few plans attached that I’d like you to review, ready for the big day.
Yours,
Jonathan St. Merchant
You should also pay attention to the prepositions used. Different prepositions work when talking about different events.
For instance:
- In the event that this occurs
“That” works when referring to a situation or noun specifically.
- In the event of failure
“Of” works when referring to an action (or failed action).
You can also remove the preposition completely. For example:
- In the event this happens
However, “in the event” with no preposition is synonymous only with “in the event that.” It does not work in place of “in the event of.”
Finally, you should bookmark this page to remind yourself of the best synonyms for “in the event.” Then, you can return here when you need a quick reminder.