It’s a use of the subjunctive.

 

From: Assembly for the Teaching of English Grammar [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Jane Saral
Sent: Thursday, October 28, 2010 8:33 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: if need be

 

I just wrote a sentence to a parent whose child may not be able to come to our tutoring appointment:  "We'll find another time if need be."

What is this construction?

 

Jane Saral

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