if only

Idioms  

1. I wish that. For example, If only I had known you were coming I would have met your plane, or If only it would snow on Christmas Eve. [c. a.d. 1000] For a synonym, see would that.

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Example Sentences

In the domino comparison, it is as if only the final pieces determine the end result.

From Science Daily • Apr. 6, 2026

“This poll shows if only positive descriptors are used and context is provided, Raman is ahead,” said Fernando Guerra, director of Loyola Marymount’s Center for the Study of Los Angeles, who directed the poll.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Yet, “Pretty Lethal” is packed with run-don’t-walk folly that demands to be seen to be believed — if only to throw up your hands and say, “I guess!”

From Salon • Mar. 29, 2026

Or maybe, Elizabeth Goldring impishly suggests in “Holbein: Renaissance Master,” he meant that he’d happily take Communion if only the table were more beautiful—dressed up, say, like a Catholic altar.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

Oh, Ollie, if only you knew who I’m giving this to!

From "Clairboyance" by Kristiana Kahakauwila

Related Words

• therefore