What Is Another Way to Say “If Not”?

Looking for synonyms for if not? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say if not.

  • Otherwise
  • Alternatively
  • Or else
  • Failing that
  • In the absence of that
  • Lest
  • Unless
  • Should that not be the case
  • If that is not the case
  • In the event that is not so
  • If that fails
  • Without that
  • If not so
  • In any other circumstance
  • Or

Want to learn how to say if not professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Otherwise

Appropriate for indicating an alternative outcome or condition.

  • Example: Please submit your report by Friday, otherwise we will miss the deadline for feedback.

2. Alternatively

Used when offering another option or suggestion.

  • Example: You can attend the workshop on Monday; alternatively, there’s another session on Wednesday.

3. Or Else

Suitable for situations where there’s a warning or a consequence if a condition is not met.

  • Example: Ensure the data is correctly entered into the system, or else it will cause discrepancies in the report.

4. Failing That

Appropriate when suggesting a backup plan or alternative in case the first option doesn’t work out.

  • Example: Try to secure the venue for the conference on the first choice of dates; failing that, look for available dates the following week.

5. In the Absence of That

Used to suggest a course of action if the initial condition or availability is not met.

  • Example: In the absence of the required software, we may need to consider open-source alternatives.

6. Lest

Suitable for expressing a condition to prevent something undesirable from happening.

  • Example: Save your work frequently, lest the system crashes and data is lost.

7. Unless

Used to specify a condition in which something will or will not happen.

  • Example: The project will not proceed unless we receive the client’s approval.

8. Should That Not Be the Case

Appropriate for preparing for a scenario where the expected outcome does not occur.

  • Example: We expect to increase our sales by 20%; should that not be the case, we will need to adjust our marketing strategy.

9. If That Is Not the Case

Used when addressing a situation where the expected or assumed condition is found to be false.

  • Example: We assume all team members are available for the meeting; if that is not the case, please inform us by noon tomorrow.

10. In the Event That Is Not So

Suitable for preparing for an alternative scenario when the original expectation is not met.

  • Example: In the event that is not so, and the supplier does not deliver on time, we have a contingency plan with another vendor.

11. If That Fails

Used to indicate a subsequent action or plan if the first attempt is unsuccessful.

  • Example: Attempt to negotiate a better price; if that fails, we may need to consider other suppliers.

12. Without That

Appropriate for scenarios where a specific condition or element is missing.

  • Example: We cannot complete the analysis without that piece of data.

13. If Not So

Used for indicating an alternative scenario or condition.

  • Example: The strategy will be deemed successful if we hit our targets; if not so, it will be reviewed and adjusted.

14. In Any Other Circumstance

Suitable for general alternatives not covered by the initial condition.

  • Example: The policy applies to all employees, in any other circumstance, exceptions must be approved by management.

15. Or

Used as a simple alternative or choice between two options.

  • Example: Please confirm your attendance at the training session by Friday, or notify us if you cannot attend.

Linda Brown