"if you can even" vs "if you can get even"

Question

"if you can even" vs "if you can get even"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'If you can get even' is used when referring to achieving a state of fairness or balance, while 'if you can even' is used to express doubt or uncertainty. They are not directly comparable as they serve different purposes.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate skepticism or uncertainty about the possibility of something happening. It implies questioning the feasibility or likelihood of a particular outcome.

Examples:

I'm not sure if you can even finish that project on time.
If you can even understand this complex concept, you're a genius.
I doubt if you can even imagine the effort it took to complete this task.
If you can even believe what he's saying, you'll be shocked.
I wonder if you can even comprehend the magnitude of this problem.

Alternatives:

if you can possibly
if you can manage to
if you can actually
if you can really
if you can truly

This phrase is used to suggest achieving a balanced or fair outcome in a situation. It implies reaching a point where things are equal or settled.

Examples:

I will be happy if you can get even with your friend after the argument.
It's important to try to get even with your siblings when it comes to sharing responsibilities.
If you can get even with your opponent in the game, you have a good chance of winning.
She wanted to get even with her coworker for taking credit for her work.
He hoped to get even with the person who had wronged him in the past.

Alternatives:

if you can achieve fairness
if you can settle the score
if you can make things right
if you can reach a balance
if you can restore equilibrium

Answer 1

if you can even

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express doubt or uncertainty.

Answer 2

if you can get even

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to achieving a state of fairness or balance.

"if you can even" vs "if you can get even"

if you can even

if you can get even

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