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
Iranian leaders now frequently bandy about the idea of producing nuclear weapons if need be.
—
Richard Nephew, Foreign Affairs, 26 May 2025
Humphrey also has the flexibility to play both on the outside and in the slot or even at safety if need be.
—Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
Substitute other vegetables for the celery if need be—thinly sliced kohlrabi, bok choy, or savoy cabbage would work well—but celery really does work well here.
—Laura McLively, Mercury News, 23 Apr. 2025
Farber also denied the application, saying the defense team could re-call witnesses if need be.
—Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 30 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for if need be
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Richard Nephew, Foreign Affairs, 26 May 2025
Humphrey also has the flexibility to play both on the outside and in the slot or even at safety if need be.
—Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
Substitute other vegetables for the celery if need be—thinly sliced kohlrabi, bok choy, or savoy cabbage would work well—but celery really does work well here.
—Laura McLively, Mercury News, 23 Apr. 2025
Farber also denied the application, saying the defense team could re-call witnesses if need be.
—Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 30 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for 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 3 Jun. 2025.
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