if
/ɪf/
NOUN
1. A condition or possibility
An uncertainty, possibility, condition, or circumstance that may or may not occur or be true.
1.1. Uncertainty or possibility
A hypothetical possibility or uncertain circumstance, especially one that may influence a decision or outcome.
Synonyms
- possibility
- uncertainty
- contingency
- eventuality
Examples
- There are too many ifs and buts to make a definite decision.
- The whole plan depends on one big if.
Related Words
CONJUNCTION
2. Supposing that or on the condition that
Used to introduce a condition or assumption under which something may happen, be true, or be accepted.
2.1. Introducing a condition
Introduces a circumstance that must be satisfied for the statement in the main clause to apply.
Synonyms
- provided that
- on condition that
- as long as
- assuming that
- supposing that
- in case
Examples
- If it rains tomorrow, we will cancel the picnic.
- You can borrow my car if you return it by Friday.
Related Words
- condition
- requirement
- proviso
- precondition
- contingency
2.2. Introducing a hypothetical situation
Introduces an imagined, unreal, or uncertain situation, including conditions contrary to known facts or unlikely circumstances.
Synonyms
- supposing that
- assuming that
- were it the case that
Examples
- If I had more time, I would learn another language.
- What would you do if you won the lottery?
Related Words
- hypothesis
- counterfactual
- speculation
- supposition
- conjecture
2.3. Introducing an indirect yes-or-no question
Used to express uncertainty or ask whether something is true, possible, or likely, especially after verbs such as know, wonder, and ask.
Synonyms
- whether
Examples
- I wonder if they will arrive on time.
- She asked if the meeting had been postponed.
Related Words
- inquiry
- question
- uncertainty
- doubt
- investigation
2.4. Introducing a concession
Used to acknowledge a fact or circumstance while emphasizing that it does not change the main statement.
Synonyms
Examples
- If he is young, he is nevertheless very experienced.
- The task, if difficult, is certainly worth attempting.
Related Words
- concession
- contrast
- qualification
- nevertheless
- despite
2.5. Introducing an extreme or emphatic condition
Used in the expression even if to indicate that a statement remains true regardless of whether a particular circumstance occurs.
Synonyms
- even supposing that
- even assuming that
- regardless of whether
Examples
- I will support your decision even if others disagree.
- Even if the journey takes longer, we should continue.
Related Words
- concession
- regardless
- irrespective
- condition
- possibility
2.6. Introducing a relevance condition
Introduces a condition that establishes the relevance or applicability of the statement that follows.
Synonyms
Examples
- If anyone can solve this problem, she can.
- If there is one thing we need now, it is patience.
Related Words
- relevance
- circumstance
- qualification
- condition
- context