if only
idiom
—used to talk about something that one wants to happen or be true
If only she loved me in return!
If only it would stop raining.
Examples of if only in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This one feels more like a necessity, if only because of the investment the team has already put into the three-time All-Star.
—
Michael Hurley, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025
The thriller — more horrific than straight-up scary — is worth checking out, if only for the late Brittany Murphy's nervy turn as a razor-wielding woman confined to a sanatorium.
—Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Oct. 2025
Cordelia, who’s estimated to be 3 years old, lets nothing slow her down and exploring outside is at the top of her list of loves, if only given the chance.
—Tj MacIas, Kansas City Star, 2 Oct. 2025
Now, if only the offense could do a bit more.
—Jess Bryant, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for if only
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Michael Hurley, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025
The thriller — more horrific than straight-up scary — is worth checking out, if only for the late Brittany Murphy's nervy turn as a razor-wielding woman confined to a sanatorium.
—Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Oct. 2025
Cordelia, who’s estimated to be 3 years old, lets nothing slow her down and exploring outside is at the top of her list of loves, if only given the chance.
—Tj MacIas, Kansas City Star, 2 Oct. 2025
Now, if only the offense could do a bit more.
—Jess Bryant, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for if only
Cite this Entry
“If only.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/if%20only. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.
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