What does 'unless' mean in English? Meanings and usages for unless.
The word "unless" is a conjunction that means "except if" or "if not." It's used to express that something will only happen or be true if a certain condition is not met.
Meaning
one thing will happen only if another thing does not happen
You won't succeed unless you try.
I will go to the park unless it rains.
We can't leave unless everyone is ready.
You might get sick unless you wear a coat.
I won't go to the party unless you come too.
The store is open every day unless it's a holiday.
You won't pass the exam unless you study hard.
Usage Notes
"Unless" is often used interchangeably with "if...not."
You won't pass the exam unless you study hard.
(You won't pass the exam if you don't study hard.)
(You will pass the exam only if you study hard.)
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