B1conjunction2K

Unless

UK /["/ənˈles/"]/US /["/ənˈles/"]/

Definition

used to say that something can only happen or be true in a particular situation

In simple words: if not; except if

Examples

  • You won't get paid for time off unless you have a doctor's note.
  • I won't tell them—not unless you say I can.
  • Unless I'm mistaken, she was back at work yesterday.
  • He hasn't got any hobbies—unless you call watching TV a hobby.
  • I sleep with the window open unless it's really cold.
  • Unless something unexpected happens, I'll see you tomorrow.
  • Have a cup of tea—unless you'd prefer a cold drink?

Usage notes

Use 'unless' to indicate a condition that must not happen. It's often used in spoken and written English but may feel informal in very formal writing, where 'except if' might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

unless + clause

Memory hint

Think of 'unless' as 'no less' — you won't get something if that condition isn't met.

Collocations

  • unless you agree
  • unless I hear otherwise
  • unless it's too late

Synonyms

  • except if
  • without
  • but for

Antonyms

  • if
  • provided that

Common mistakes

  • 'Unless' can be confused with 'if', leading learners to use it incorrectly in conditional sentences.
  • Some may forget to include a complete clause after 'unless', making their sentences incomplete.
  • Confusing 'unless' with 'until', which have different meanings.