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
Humphrey also has the flexibility to play both on the outside and in the slot or even at safety if need be.
—
Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
Substitute other vegetables for the celery if need be—thinly sliced kohlrabi, bok choy, or savoy cabbage would work well—but celery really does work well here.
—Laura McLively, Mercury News, 23 Apr. 2025
Farber also denied the application, saying the defense team could re-call witnesses if need be.
—Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 30 Apr. 2025
Carin, a flight attendant for a major domestic carrier, revealed that her airline in particular requires workers to help passengers locate space in the overhead bins, and aid with lifting it if need be — but not to pick up the bag on their own.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 2025
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Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
Substitute other vegetables for the celery if need be—thinly sliced kohlrabi, bok choy, or savoy cabbage would work well—but celery really does work well here.
—Laura McLively, Mercury News, 23 Apr. 2025
Farber also denied the application, saying the defense team could re-call witnesses if need be.
—Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 30 Apr. 2025
Carin, a flight attendant for a major domestic carrier, revealed that her airline in particular requires workers to help passengers locate space in the overhead bins, and aid with lifting it if need be — but not to pick up the bag on their own.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 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 21 May. 2025.
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