Saving an address in advance prepares for a possible loss of signal. Checking the saved address if the signal fails is a response to that event. The two actions have different timing.
The idea
Use in case + clause for the possibility motivating a precaution. Present forms can refer to a future risk; past forms can explain an earlier precaution. Just in case can stand alone. In case of + noun is common in instructions.
Examples
- I'll save the address offline in case my phone loses its signal.
- Pack a spare shirt in case the paint splashes.
- I wrote down the shelf measurements in case I forgot them.
- Keep the order number, just in case.
- In case of a delay, contact the workshop organiser.
- I'll check the offline address if I lose the signal.
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Watch out
Do not mechanically substitute if: a precaution does not wait for the problem. It need not prevent the event either—a spare shirt does not stop splashes. In the notice, in case of a delay means if a delay occurs.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct form. I'll save the address offline in case my phone ___ its signal. (loses / lose)
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loses
Singular my phone takes loses. The present form refers to a possible later loss of signal.
The address is saved beforehand as a precaution. Choose the matching phrase. I'll save it ___ I lose the signal. (in case / only if)
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in case
In case matches advance preparation. Only if would make saving the address conditional on losing the signal.
Choose the correct phrase before a noun. ___ a delay, contact the organiser. (In case of / In case)
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In case of
Use in case of before the noun phrase a delay. Without of, a clause would be needed, such as there is a delay.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct form. I'll save the address offline in case my phone ___ its signal. (loses / lose)
The address is saved beforehand as a precaution. Choose the matching phrase. I'll save it ___ I lose the signal. (in case / only if)
Choose the correct phrase before a noun. ___ a delay, contact the organiser. (In case of / In case)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Write two linked instructions for a trip: one precaution with in case and one response with if. Explain which action happens before any problem and which depends on it.