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UK//wɒt ɪf//US//wɑt ɪf//

Meaning of What if

A phrase used to explore hypothetical situations or alternatives.

In simple words: a way to ask about possibilities or alternatives

What if in a sentence

  • What if we try a different approach?
  • What if he doesn't show up to the meeting?
  • She asked, 'What if we fail?'
  • What if we could travel anywhere?
  • I often wonder, what if we had taken that job?

How to use What if

Use 'what if' to propose questions about potential scenarios. It's common in discussions and brainstorming, but avoid in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

what if + clause

Memory hint

Think of 'what if' as opening a door to new possibilities.

Related words

Collocations with What if

  • what if scenario
  • ask what if
  • think what if

Synonyms for What if

Opposites of What if

Common mistakes with What if

  • Use 'what ifs' incorrectly as a noun.
  • Confuse 'what if' with 'if only'.
  • 'What if' followed by a question mark is unnecessary.

Compare What if with Suppose, Imagine, Consider

What if appears in

What if in other languages

More chunks like What if

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Frequently asked questions about What if

What does What if mean?

a way to ask about possibilities or alternatives

What is the definition of What if?

A phrase used to explore hypothetical situations or alternatives.

How do you use What if in a sentence?

What if we try a different approach?

Can you give another example of What if?

What if he doesn't show up to the meeting?

What are synonyms for What if?

Common alternatives include what would happen, suppose, imagine, consider.

What is the opposite of What if?

Opposite meanings include definitely, certainly, indeed, for sure.

What words go with What if?

It commonly pairs with what if scenario, ask what if, think what if.

What are common mistakes when using What if?

Use 'what ifs' incorrectly as a noun. Confuse 'what if' with 'if only'. 'What if' followed by a question mark is unnecessary.

How do you pronounce What if?

US: //wɑt ɪf//, UK: //wɒt ɪf//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use What if?

Use 'what if' to propose questions about potential scenarios. It's common in discussions and brainstorming, but avoid in formal writing.