From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishif onlyif onlya) used to express a strong wish, especially when you know that what you want cannot happen If only he had talked to her sooner! If only I weren’t so tired! b) used to give a reason for something, although you think it is not a good one Media studies is regarded as a more exciting subject, if only because it’s new. → if
Examples from the Corpus
if only• Chemicals If used strictly according to recommendations, chemical treatments have their place, if only as a last resort for serious threats.• He may have survived if only he could have found it.• Oh, if only he were different!• If only I could be 15 again!• Oh ma'am if only I had shown myself strong in the face of temptation!• She was certain that if only they could get away, he'd go superbly over this country.• Women needed men, if only to get out of the company of other women.• Just call her, if only to say you're sorry.• I am setting off next Wednesday ... Ah, if only we had clarinets too!• A compelling performance consequence can always be found, if only you choose to find, communicate, and manage toward it.if onlyif onlyspoken used to express a strong wish If only he’d call! → onlyExamples from the Corpus
if only• He may have survived if only he could have found it.• Oh, if only he were different!• Oh ma'am if only I had shown myself strong in the face of temptation!• She was certain that if only they could get away, he'd go superbly over this country.• Women needed men, if only to get out of the company of other women.• I am setting off next Wednesday ... Ah, if only we had clarinets too!• A compelling performance consequence can always be found, if only you choose to find, communicate, and manage toward it. 