Meaning of the word "if not" in English
What does "if not" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
if not
US /ɪf nɑt/
UK /ɪf nɒt/
Phrase
1.
used to introduce a statement that indicates a stronger possibility or a more extreme case than what was just mentioned
Example:
•
He's a good student, if not excellent.
•
The movie was interesting, if not captivating.
2.
used to indicate that something is certainly true, and perhaps even more so
Example:
•
He works hard, if not too hard.
•
The task is difficult, if not impossible.