if not

USAGE SUMMARY

'if not' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing the opposite of what is expected, or when introducing an alternative to the statement just made. Example: "I'm not sure if I can make it to the party tonight, if not, I'll see you next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If not?

The Economist

If not, I'll survive.

The New York Times - Health

If not, buzz off.

Independent

unlikely if not impossible".

The New York Times

If not, no worries.

The New York Times - Sports

But if not?

The Economist

"If not exalt".

The New Yorker

If not, they spoil.

The Economist

If not, I don't.

Independent

"If not the darkness".

The New York Times

If not, it doesn't".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if not" to introduce a clear alternative or consequence when the initial condition is not met. This helps maintain a logical flow and provides options for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "if not" when a simple negation would suffice. Ensure it introduces a genuine alternative rather than merely contradicting the initial statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if not" functions as an adverbial phrase, introducing an alternative or contrasting condition to the main clause. Ludwig AI examples showcase its role in presenting options or consequences. It connects ideas by providing a secondary possibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

32%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverbial phrase "if not" is a versatile tool for presenting alternatives or contrasting conditions. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and very commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, and Wiki content. When using "if not", ensure it introduces a clear alternative and avoids simple negation. Consider alternatives like "otherwise" or "failing that" to vary your writing. Remember that "if not" is quite common and neutral in register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

otherwise

A single-word substitute indicating an alternative if the preceding condition is not met; it's more concise.

failing that

Indicates a course of action to be taken if the preferred one is not possible; slightly more formal.

in the event that doesn't happen

A longer, more explicit rephrasing, spelling out the condition more clearly.

if that's not the case

Explicitly refers back to the previously stated condition; useful for clarity.

should that not occur

A more formal and somewhat literary way of expressing the alternative condition.

absent that

A concise and formal alternative, implying "if that is absent".

if that fails

Focuses on the failure of the preceding action or condition.

in default thereof

A legalistic and very formal way to express the alternative.

lest that happen

Expresses concern about something happening and offers an alternative to prevent it; carries a sense of warning.

on the other hand

Introduces a contrasting possibility or viewpoint; less directly conditional.

FAQs

How can I use "if not" in a sentence?

Use "if not" to present an alternative scenario or outcome. For example, "Please submit your application by Friday; "otherwise", it will not be considered".

What are some alternatives to "if not"?

Depending on the context, you can use "otherwise", "failing that", or "if that's not the case" as alternatives.

Is it correct to start a sentence with "if not"?

While less common, starting a sentence with "if not" can be acceptable for emphasis or dramatic effect, especially in informal writing. Ensure clarity and context support this usage.

How does the meaning of "if not" compare to "unless"?

"If not" presents an alternative condition, whereas "unless" introduces an exception to a rule or situation. They are not always interchangeable; "unless" often implies a stronger condition. For example, "The game will be played if it doesn't rain; "if not", it will be postponed". You can rephrase the same concept saying "The game will be played "unless" it rains".