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
Jonathan and Steven’s friendship is occasionally delightful to watch, if only because the actors share the comfortable chemistry of lifelong pals.
—
Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 26 June 2025
Abrego Garcia, who was shackled and wearing a red jumpsuit, was expected to be released Wednesday, if only into ICE custody.
—Travis Loller, Fortune, 26 June 2025
Should the whole table divide the bill evenly if only a few ordered liquor?
—Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2025
Any rain would, if only temporarily, cool Charlotte down.
—Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 25 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for if only
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Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 26 June 2025
Abrego Garcia, who was shackled and wearing a red jumpsuit, was expected to be released Wednesday, if only into ICE custody.
—Travis Loller, Fortune, 26 June 2025
Should the whole table divide the bill evenly if only a few ordered liquor?
—Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2025
Any rain would, if only temporarily, cool Charlotte down.
—Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 25 June 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 1 Jul. 2025.
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