unless (B1)

conjunction

Pronunciation: /ənˈles/

Definition

Except if; on the condition that not.

Examples

• The event will be cancelled unless the weather improves.

• He won't go to bed unless he finishes his story.

• You will fail the exam unless you study harder.

How to Use unless

unless + clause (prepositional phrase)

Introduces a condition that, if not met, will lead to the main clause. — "We will have to postpone the meeting unless we receive the report by Friday."

unless otherwise specified (collocation)

Used to indicate that the default rule or condition applies if no specific instructions are given. — "All participants must attend the opening ceremony, unless otherwise specified."

Synonyms of unless

Words with a similar meaning to unless:

• if not
• except if
• barring
• save for

Antonyms of unless

Words with the opposite meaning to unless:

• if
• provided that

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