if not

ADVERB

otherwise

Synonyms

STRONG

differently

WEAK

any other way at another time contrarily diversely elseways in different circumstances on the other hand or else or then under other conditions variously

CONJUNCTION

unless

Synonyms

WEAK

but except except for excepting that lest saving without

PREPOSITION

except

Synonyms

STRONGEST

save

STRONG

bar barring excepting excluding exempting lacking omitting rejecting saving

WEAK

apart from aside from besides but exclusive of leaving out minus not for outside of short of with the exception of without

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.

Balogun may have shone in the US jersey, but if not for an accident of fate he wouldn't even be American.

From Barron's • Jun. 18, 2026

Warsh said he hopes most of the task forces, if not all of them, will conclude their work by the end of this year.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 17, 2026

Once these norms are broken, it will take decades — if not generations — to repair them.

From Salon • Jun. 17, 2026

That’s a rage-inducing reality for many, if not most of us, for whom pairing a full tank of gas with a restaurant dinner seems like careless luxury these days.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 14, 2026

It would almost be cute, if not for the sprawling, chaotic posture she’s assumed on the basement couch.

From "Kwame Crashes the Underworld" by Craig Kofi Farmer

if not

Example Sentences

Related Words