vs
QUICK ANSWER
"As if" is a conjunction which is often translated as "como si", and "if only" is a phrase which is often translated as "si tan solo". Learn more about the difference between "as if" and "if only" below.
as if(
ahz
ihf
)A conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, clauses, or sentences (e.g., The cat and the dog slept.).
1. (as though)
a. como si
You stole from me, and then acted as if you were the victim.Me robaste y luego te portaste como si tú fueras la víctima.
An interjection is a short utterance that expresses emotion, hesitation, or protest (e.g., Wow!).
2. (informal) (used to express skepticism)
A word or phrase used to refer to the second person informal “tú” by their conjugation or implied context (e.g., How are you?).
a. ¡Sí, cómo no! (informal)
A word or phrase used to refer to the second person informal “tú” by their conjugation or implied context (e.g., How are you?).
I won the lottery. - As if!Gané la lotería. - ¡Sí, cómo no!
if only(
ihf
on
-
li
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
a. si tan solo
If only I had caught the bus earlier, I would have made it to the theater on time.Si tan sólo hubiera subido al autobús más temprano, habría llegado al teatro a tiempo.
c. si solo
If only I'd worn my helmet, I wouldn't have gotten so badly hurt.Si solo hubiera llevado mi casco, no me habría lastimado tanto.
2. (even if)
a. aunque sea
I wish I could see you again, if only for one night.Espero que pudiera verte de nuevo, aunque sea por una noche.
a. aunque más no sea (Latin America)
Regionalism used in Latin America: all the countries in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Does not include Spain.
Tyrone is very sad right now, if only because his bike was stolen.Tyrone está muy triste ahora mismo, aunque más no sea porque su bici fue robada.
b. aunque solo sea
My brother is happy, if only because he got a raise.Mi hermano está feliz, aunque solo sea porque le aumentaron el sueldo.