if not

• Konjunktionale Wendung, die eine Alternative oder Ausnahme einleitet und bedeutet 'falls etwas nicht zutrifft oder nicht geschieht'.

A conditional phrase used to introduce an alternative or exception, meaning 'in the case that something is not true or does not happen'.

1. Possibly evenB2formal

   Used to suggest that something might be even more true or extreme than previously stated.

   Vielleicht sogar

   • The project will take months, if not years, to complete.
   • She is one of the best, if not the best, player on the team.
   • The cost is high, if not prohibitive, for most people.

2. OtherwiseB2formal

   Used to introduce a contrasting or alternative situation.

   Andernfalls

   • You should leave now, if not you'll miss the train.
   • Finish your homework, if not you can't go out.
   • We need to act quickly, if not the opportunity will be lost.