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
For those who saw Varsity’s dominance as a troubling concentration of power—if not an outright antitrust issue—the collegiate space offered a rare opportunity: a chance to build something outside the reach of a deeply entrenched corporate force.
—
Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 14 July 2025
This building could be similarly enticing, the group mused, if not even more so.
—Andrew Marantz, New Yorker, 14 July 2025
At one point, the ulcer wrapped nearly all the way around her lower leg — a situation that can lead to amputation if not controlled.
—Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2025
And thus begins one of the most fruitful actor-director partnerships of the 21st century — if not ever.
—Derek Lawrence, EW.com, 13 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for if not
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 14 July 2025
This building could be similarly enticing, the group mused, if not even more so.
—Andrew Marantz, New Yorker, 14 July 2025
At one point, the ulcer wrapped nearly all the way around her lower leg — a situation that can lead to amputation if not controlled.
—Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2025
And thus begins one of the most fruitful actor-director partnerships of the 21st century — if not ever.
—Derek Lawrence, EW.com, 13 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for if not
Cite this Entry
“If not.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/if%20not. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share