if not

idiom

1

—used to talk about the negative result or effect of something

You should study. If not, you won't pass the test.

2

—used to express surprise about meeting someone when it is not expected

So I went to the game and who should I see there if not my old friend Tom!

Examples of if not in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The creator economy is booming and growing, but there is a feeling that many left-leaning creators are falling behind many of their counterparts on the right, at least in terms of financial stability, if not influence. —Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 15 Dec. 2025

The exciting part for Lexus, if not consumers just yet, is that the world of all-electric performance cars is still in its infancy, lacking a dominant player. —Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 15 Dec. 2025

There is no doubt that more lives would have been lost if not for Ahmed’s selfless courage. —Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 15 Dec. 2025

Even ingesting small amounts can cause kidney failure if not promptly treated. —Maddie Topliff, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Dec. 2025

Rhymes for if not

• allot
• barat
• begot
• besought
• bethought
• bloodshot
• boycott
• buckshot
• crackpot
• croat
• culottes
• dashpot