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Not if I can help it

Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.

6 July 2026

Not if I can help it

We use this expression to say that we do not want to do something unless it is unavoidable.

Written: No

Spoken: Yes

Formal: No

Informal: Yes

Example 1

Are you staying late tonight?

Not if I can help it. I want to go home and relax.

Example 2

Is it true that Jim is going to be made head of department next year?

Not if I can help it. He's a complete idiot.

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