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
And if need be, her kids can be on set with her on a more consistent basis.
—
Jason Pham, StyleCaster, 8 Jan. 2026
Doesn’t want to run but can convert if need be.
—Antonio Morales, New York Times, 6 Jan. 2026
Or sometimes, if need be, catching up on sleep.
—Rachel Wallace, Architectural Digest, 22 Dec. 2025
Call in the professionals if need be.
—Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 25 Nov. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“If need be.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/if%20need%20be. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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