Pronunciation

/ɪf/

Definitions

• Conjunction: A word used to introduce a conditional clause, expressing a possible condition or consequence. For example: “If it rains, I’ll stay at home.”

  • Definition in-depth: The word “if” is used to join two clauses where the first clause (protasis) typically presents a hypothetical situation, and the second clause (apodosis) describes the outcome that would follow if that situation were true.

• Preposition: In some cases, “if” can be used to mean “whether.” For example: “She asked me if he was coming.”

Phrases

• “If and when” is used to suggest that something might happen at some future time or under certain conditions.
• “If only” introduces a wish or regret about something that is not true or cannot be changed. For example: “If only I had studied harder.”
• “If so” is used to introduce a statement that is likely to be true based on what has been previously mentioned. Example: “Are you going to the party tonight? If so, I’ll see you there.”

Example Sentences

• Conjunction: “If you study hard, you will pass the exam.”
• Preposition: “I’m not sure if he’s coming to the meeting today.”

Synonyms

• Whether (in some contexts)
• Supposing
• Provided that
• Given that
• In case
• Should (in certain conditional sentences)