Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

if-only

conjunction
/ɪf ˈoʊnli/
Definition
A phrase expressing a wish that something were different or could be changed.
Examples
  • If only I had studied harder for the exam.
  • She said, ‘If only we could go back in time.’
  • If only it would stop raining, we could play outside.
Meaning
Used to convey a desire for an alternate reality where an event or situation would be improved or modified.
Synonyms
  • what if
  • if perhaps