If not
conjunction
Used to say that something is possibly true. If it is not true, the act or action is still true.
He is coming over tomorrow, if not today.
Often appears as...
- if not today
- if not sooner
conjunction
Used to introduce a stronger or more accurate word in a sentence or statement.
Your performance was good, if not outstanding.
Often appears as...
- if not outstanding
- if not excellent
conjunction
Used to suggest that something would have happened, if something else had not happened.
I would have lost, if not for your help.
Often appears as...
- if not for your help
- if not for your advice
conjunction
Used to say that something is possibly true. If it is not true, the act or action is still true.
He is coming over tomorrow, if not today.
Often appears as...
- if not today
- if not sooner
conjunction
Used to introduce a stronger or more accurate word in a sentence or statement.
Your performance was good, if not outstanding.
Often appears as...
- if not outstanding
- if not excellent
conjunction
Used to suggest that something would have happened, if something else had not happened.
I would have lost, if not for your help.
Often appears as...
- if not for your help
- if not for your advice
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Expressing Uncertainty
Use 'if not' to show you're unsure about something but considering possibilities.
She might join us for dinner, if not lunch.
Pro Tip 2/3Implying Alternatives
Suggest an alternative action or time frame without specifying what it is exactly.
We'll meet tomorrow, if not sometime this week.
Pro Tip 3/3Softening Statements
Use 'if not' to soften the impact of a statement that might be too direct.
That sounds like a good plan, if not the best one.
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