If only Meaning in English
expression
ˈɪf/, /ɪf/ /ˈoʊnɫi
if OHN-lee
ˈɪf/ /ˈəʊnli
if OHN-lee
Definition
A phrase used to express a strong wish that something were true or had happened differently. It often shows regret or longing for a different situation.
Usage & Nuances
Always expresses longing or regret about unreal situations in the present or past. Often used at the start of sentences: "If only I knew..." Not used for realistic future plans, only wishes or hypotheticals.
Spanish: ojalá - si tan soloPortuguese (BR): quem dera - se ao menosPortuguese (PT): quem me dera - se ao menosChinese (Simplified): 要是……就好了 - 只要Chinese (Traditional): 要是……就好了 - 只要Hindi: काश कि - अगर बसArabic: ليت - لو فقطBengali: যদি এমন হতো - যদি অন্ততRussian: если бы толькоJapanese: もし～なら - もし～だけでもVietnamese: giá mà - phải chiKorean: ~만이라도 - 만약 ~했다면Turkish: keşkeUrdu: کاشIndonesian: andai saja - andai
Example Sentences
If only I had more time.
basic
If only it would stop raining.
basic
If only I could speak English better.
basic
If only I'd remembered to bring my keys!
natural
She acts as if only she owned the place.
natural
If only things had turned out differently.
natural