to the extent

A phrase increasingly used on cable news when the words "if" and "when" would be more concise without sacrificing accuracy. The reason why it's used this way is because it sounds less abrasive. A less abrasive-sounding phrase is helpful for manipulating you. Most of the time, in ordinary conversation, you never have to use "to the extent" unless you are trying to soften the impact of what you are about to say. If you hear the phrase "to the extent" in ordinary conversation, pay attention because someone may be manipulating you (or, alternatively, trying not to hurt your feelings too much). Used correctly, it provides implied information regard the limit or scope of something.