if need be
idiom
: if something becomes necessary
You can always call me at home if need be.
We'll leave without them if need be.
Examples of if need be in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
As in enough remaining draft capital to trade for another star, if need be.
—
Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 31 May 2025
Potential panelists might also fill out questionnaires on April 29 and, if need be, April 30.
—Victoria Bekiempis, Vulture, 28 Apr. 2025
If all goes to plan, the budget will be on the House floor Wednesday, Thursday and — if need be — Friday for a parade of amendment proposals from Democrats and Republicans alike.
—The Denver Post, Denver Post, 12 Apr. 2025
When a house is slated to be built in the historic districts of St. Augustine, Florida, the city requires that archaeologists conduct a survey—and, if need be, an excavation—of the site prior to construction.
—Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Mar. 2025
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Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 31 May 2025
Potential panelists might also fill out questionnaires on April 29 and, if need be, April 30.
—Victoria Bekiempis, Vulture, 28 Apr. 2025
If all goes to plan, the budget will be on the House floor Wednesday, Thursday and — if need be — Friday for a parade of amendment proposals from Democrats and Republicans alike.
—The Denver Post, Denver Post, 12 Apr. 2025
When a house is slated to be built in the historic districts of St. Augustine, Florida, the city requires that archaeologists conduct a survey—and, if need be, an excavation—of the site prior to construction.
—Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for if need be
Cite this Entry
“If need be.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/if%20need%20be. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.
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