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if need be

idiom

Definition of if need be

: if something becomes necessary

You can always call me at home if need be.

We'll leave without them if need be.

Word by Word Definitions

need play

: necessary duty : obligation
: a lack of something requisite, desirable, or useful
: a physiological or psychological requirement for the well-being of an organism

: to be needful or necessary
: to be in want
: to be in need of : require

See the full definition of need

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