if only

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English

Pronunciation

  • Audio (AU)(file)

Conjunction

if only

  1. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see if,‎ only.
    It made me feel better, if only for a moment.
    It won't be much fun if only guys turn up to the party.
  2. (idiomatic) I wish that; signifies a wish or desire for the present or the future.
    If only I could win the lottery.
    My gambling ex could come to his senses, if only.
  3. (idiomatic) I wish that; signifies a regret about an action in the past.
    If only I had ​listened to my parents.
    We didn't have that luxury. If only!
  4. (idiomatic) Even if for no other reason than; only just.
    I was pretty sure what I wanted, but I still tried on another if only to make sure.
  5. (idiomatic) Signifies a hypothetical or wishful precondition, or one which would be simple but is nonetheless unlikely, for a hypothetical, counterfactual, or future outcome.
    He could be a great student if only he got [or: if he only got] a little non-judgmental encouragement.
    If you'd only quit interrupting me, I'll tell you!

Antonyms

Translations

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See also

References

  • “if only”, in OneLook Dictionary Search.

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