Meanings
How to pronounce "if only":
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see if, only.
Example: "It made me feel better, if only for a moment."
Example: "It won't be much fun if only guys turn up to the party."
I wish that; signifies a wish or desire for the present or the future.
Example: "If only I could win the lottery."
Example: "My gambling ex could come to his senses, if only."
I wish that; signifies a regret about an action in the past.
Example: "If only I had listened to my parents."
Example: "We didn't have that luxury. If only!"
Even if for no other reason than; only just.
Example: "I was pretty sure what I wanted, but I still tried on another if only to make sure."
Signifies a hypothetical or wishful precondition, or one which would be simple but is nonetheless unlikely, for a hypothetical, counterfactual, or future outcome.
Example: "He could be a great student if only he got [or: if he only got] a little non-judgmental encouragement.or:"
Example: "If you'd only quit interrupting me, I'll tell you!"
