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.

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Some of the best stackable washer/dryer sets can be unstacked and used side by side if need be. —Kat De Naoum, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 May 2023

The best way to enjoy Hot Water Beach: Within two hours before or after low tide, make your way to the rocks at the southern end of the beach, plant your shovel (several nearby cafes will rent you one if need be), and dig down. —Madeline Bilis, Travel + Leisure, 11 Apr. 2023

The parts work seamlessly as a single unit but each part is autonomous and can be replaced if need be without disrupting the whole. —Casper Rasmussen, Forbes, 27 Jan. 2023

This may even mean making additional purchases or engaging in additional spending if need be to earn the credit. —Mia Taylor, Fortune, 20 Jan. 2023

Comer, though not one of the holdouts against McCarthy, isn't ruling out using the concession if need be. —Brady Knox, Washington Examiner, 8 Jan. 2023

Wear it around the house or as an undershirt that can, if need be, also see the light of day. —Christian Gollayan, Men's Health, 15 Dec. 2022

An outfit perfect for a ceremony and, if need be, fighting bad guys. —André-naquian Wheeler, Vogue, 9 Nov. 2022

This includes building out and, if need be, transforming the US energy system. —Kevin Johnson And Mark Ruffalo For, CNN, 17 May 2022

See More