if need be
idiom
: if something becomes necessary
You can always call me at home if need be.
We'll leave without them if need be.
Examples of if need be in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Sticking to the plan while also being adaptable if need be.
—
Dalton Ross, EW.com, 4 Sep. 2024
Let passengers have some time to themselves if need be.
—Allie Volpe, Vox, 4 Aug. 2024
When women did drink, their capacity for alcohol was as diminished as their access to public space – women were expected to drink fortified wines or, if need be, a half-pint, according to Clare Herrick, a Professor of Geography and Global Health.
—Sadhbh O'Sullivan, refinery29.com, 12 Oct. 2019
Time to exhale, wait, watch and react if need be in February.
—Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 4 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for if need be 
Dalton Ross, EW.com, 4 Sep. 2024
Let passengers have some time to themselves if need be.
—Allie Volpe, Vox, 4 Aug. 2024
When women did drink, their capacity for alcohol was as diminished as their access to public space – women were expected to drink fortified wines or, if need be, a half-pint, according to Clare Herrick, a Professor of Geography and Global Health.
—Sadhbh O'Sullivan, refinery29.com, 12 Oct. 2019
Time to exhale, wait, watch and react if need be in February.
—Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 4 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for if need be
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'if need be.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near if need be
Cite this Entry
“If need be.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/if%20need%20be. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share