if not
The phrase "if not" is commonly used in English to indicate alternative actions or to suggest a stronger possibility.
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Definition
C1Emphasis
(intensifier)Suggests a stronger or more extreme possibility than initially mentioned.
Example
- The project is challenging, if not impossible.
- She is talented, if not a genius.
B2General Language
(conditional, alternative)Indicates an alternative action or outcome if a prior condition is not met.
Example
- Finish your homework; if not, you can't go out to play.
- Are you coming? If not, we'll start without you.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "if not":