if only we could

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if only we could" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is generally used to express a desire or wish to do something that may be difficult or impossible. For example: "If only we could find a way to solve this problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Violet: "If only we could".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

If only we could tap it.

The Guardian

If only we could curate that.

The Guardian

If only we could be as energy smart as Denmark!

The New York Times

If only we could get off that cheaply!

The New York Times

If only we could all live like the Toledos.

The New Yorker

We think: if only we could dream their dreams.

The New Yorker

If only we could have the old ways back.

The New York Times - Arts

If only we could do something about that face.

The New York Times

If only we could have heard the performance up-close.

The New York Times - Arts

It is difficult expertise to bottle – if only we could.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if only we could" to express a desire for something that is currently unattainable or difficult to achieve, adding a touch of wistfulness or regret.

Common error

Avoid using "if only we could" when discussing easily achievable goals. It is best suited for expressing longing for something beyond immediate reach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if only we could" functions as an expression of regret or longing for a situation that is not currently possible. This is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis, which confirms its use to express desires that are difficult or impossible to fulfill. The examples show its usage across various contexts to convey a sense of wistfulness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if only we could" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey a sense of regret or longing for something unattainable. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage for expressing desires that are difficult or impossible to achieve. Found predominantly in news and media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. When writing, be mindful to reserve it for scenarios genuinely beyond immediate possibility. Consider alternatives like "I wish we could" or "it would be great if we could" to express similar sentiments with slight variations in tone. Avoid misusing the tense and using it for easily achievable things.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I wish we could

Replaces "if only" with a simpler expression of wishing.

It would be great if we could

Emphasizes the desirability of the unrealized action.

How I wish we were able to

Adds emotional intensity and focuses on capability.

We can only hope to

Focuses on hope as the sole remaining option.

If only it were possible for us to

Adds a layer of formality and emphasizes possibility.

Sadly, we cannot

Directly states the inability, highlighting the regret.

We long to

Expresses a deep yearning or desire.

I'd give anything to

Highlights the extent of the desire, implying a sacrifice.

We dream of being able to

Focuses on the aspirational and dreamlike quality of the desire.

Perhaps someday we will

Expresses a distant hope for future possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "if only we could" in a sentence?

Use "if only we could" to express a wish or regret about a situation that is difficult or impossible to change. For example, "If only we could turn back time" expresses a longing for a different outcome.

What's a similar phrase to "if only we could"?

A similar phrase is "I wish we could", which also conveys a sense of longing or regret. Another option is "it would be great if we could".

Is "if only we could" formal or informal?

"If only we could" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the subject matter.

What's the difference between "if only we could" and "I hope we can"?

"If only we could" expresses a wish that is unlikely to be fulfilled, while "I hope we can" expresses a desire with a possibility of realization. The first is more about regret, the second is more hopeful.