Meaning of the phrase "if we are to do something"?

Question

Here is the context:

First, we have to understand the nature of the virus, if we are to overcome it.

Does it mean if we want to overcome it?

macmillandictionary.com/dictionary/british/be-to-do-something. This link may help. — Haritdeep Singh, Commented Apr 2, 2018 at 13:23
It assumes that you want to overcome it rather than stating it. The meaning is that the necessary condition for overcoming the virus is to understand it. — Ronald Sole, Commented Apr 2, 2018 at 14:24

ColleenV · Accepted Answer · 2024-01-06 17:38:26Z

The phrase "be to do something" can have 4 meanings - depending on context:

a) used to talk about arrangements for the future

b) used to give an order or to tell someone about a rule

c) used to say or ask what someone should do or what should happen

d) used to ask how something can be done

First, we have to understand the nature of the virus, if we are to overcome it.

In your context is in meaning a). It is talking about arrangements for the future for overcoming virus diseases, by understand their nature.

The answer for your last question:

If we are to overcome it = if we plan to overcome it in future.

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