(I) would if I could
(I) would if I could
I would like to do whatever has been asked of me, but I am unable to. Sometimes used humorously or sarcastically. A: "Isn't there anything you can do to expedite our claim?" B: "I would if I could, really, but my hands are tied." A: "Hey, would you please clean out the gutters like I asked?" B: "Ah, sorry, would if I could, but I really must be going."
See also: could, if
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
(I) would if I could(, but I can't).
I simply can't do it. Jane: Can't you fix this yourself ? John: I would if I could, but I can't. Bob: Can you go to the dance? Hardly anyone is going. Alice: Would if I could.
See also: could, if
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
- as far as the eye can see
- as far as the eye can/could see
- this just in
- believe it or not
- bion
- are we having fun yet
- Are we having fun yet?
- AWHFY
- aforethought
- riddle me this/that