what if

[hwuht-if, hwot‑, wuht‑, wot‑] / ˈʰwʌtˈɪf, ˈʰwɒt‑, ˈwʌt‑, ˈwɒt‑ /

CONJUNCTION

suppose that

Synonyms

WEAK

but imagine supposing that

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.

Sure, it makes you feel good, but why does it make you feel good, and what, if anything, do you want in return?

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

In a Truth Social post External link announcing the move, Trump was silent on what, if anything, Pulte’s new role could mean for the futures of Fannie and Freddie.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

He gets very enthusiastic about what if we look at that hypocrisy and just bulldoze over it.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

“But what if almost everything you were taught about them was wrong?”

From Salon • May 20, 2026

So what if she embarrassed me during the Q and A session?

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith