Definition

A word used to introduce a condition that must be met for something to happen, often meaning 'if not'.

Example

You won't succeed unless you work hard.

Conversation

Are you going to the party tonight?

I might go, but I’ll only join if my friend comes too.

That makes sense, it’s always more fun with friends unless they bail last minute.

Exactly! I don’t want to go alone unless I really have to.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A word used to introduce a condition that must be met for something to happen, meaning 'if not'.

Example

You won't succeed unless you work hard.

Conversation

Are you going to the party tonight?

I might go, unless it starts too late.

Yeah, I understand. I won’t stay long, unless they have my favorite snacks.

Root Explanation

Unless → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "less" (from Old English "leas", meaning without). The word "unless" means not without, or in other words, it indicates a condition that must be met for something to happen.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') and 'without' ('less') to remember that 'unless' sets a condition that must be fulfilled.

Visually Confused Words