if i were

conjunction
UK: /ɪf aɪ wɜː/
US: /ɪf aɪ wɜr/

  1. Used to introduce a hypothetical situation or a condition that is contrary to fact.

    1. If I were rich, I would buy a new car. [ ] [ ]
    2. I would travel the world if I were younger and had more free time to enjoy the trip. [ ] [ ]

  2. Used to express a wish or a desire for something that is unlikely to happen.

    1. If I were a bird, I would fly away. [ ] [ ]
    2. The project would be more manageable if I were given additional support, but that's unlikely. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

assuming supposing

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "if i were" in English means: Used to introduce a hypothetical situation or a condition that is contrary to fact., Used to express a wish or a desire for something that is unlikely to happen..

The phonetic transcription of "if i were" is /ɪf aɪ wɜː/ in British English and /ɪf aɪ wɜr/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "if i were": assuming, supposing.

Example usage of "if i were": "If I were rich, I would buy a new car.". More examples on the page.