if not

phrase

1

—used to talk about the negative result or effect of something

You should study. If not, you won't pass the test.

2

—used to express surprise about meeting someone when it is not expected

So I went to the game and who should I see there if not my old friend Tom!

Examples of if not in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

His arm might be a bit tired, but if not, the Braves could be primed to win just one of the final two games of the series. — Outkick, FOXNews.com, 6 Oct. 2026

Medical bills are often impenetrable documents littered with complex codes and terminology, and sorting through charges and details about insurance coverage can feel intimidating, if not downright paralyzing. — Jennifer Schlinger, The Conversation, 6 Oct. 2026

Fandom can feel like a series of headaches, if not a second job. — Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 6 Oct. 2026

Biggest upset of its kind in Georgia history Stephens County defeated Hart County 44-28 in a game that defied the rule of common opponents, if not common sense, last week. — Todd Holcomb, AJC.com, 5 Oct. 2026

Rhymes for if not

• allot
• barat
• begot
• besought
• bethought
• bloodshot
• boycott
• buckshot
• crackpot
• croat
• culottes
• dashpot