if only
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
So while he might know that his brother’s expectation that you pay for meals out is unreasonable, the cost may be worth it to him, if only to avoid disrupting the system.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 17, 2026
I presumed that the family might sell at some point in the not-too-distant future, if only to deal with potential estate issues, as Peter Angelos was 93.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 13, 2026
Tourists hauled their suitcases over the doorstep into the fray, fresh off a flight or rushing to make one, if only they could get one last chicken finger first.
From Slate ● Aug. 24, 2026
I myself am grateful for the appearance of Lord Ormund if only because Norton is clearly having a blast and his olfactory sensitivity and devotion to aromatherapy add some much needed humor.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 10, 2026
Emery talks about her parents, and moving away, and how badly she wants to get into medical school, even if only to prove that she's different from the rest of her family.
From "Starfish" by Akemi Dawn Bowman
