Words / B1

uhn-LES/ənˈles/

Unless means except if. We will be late unless we leave now = if we do not leave now. If not is the meaning; otherwise is an adverb, not a conjunction in the same way. Do not use unless with don’t in the same idea (unless we don’t leave is a double negative trap). Unless can start the sentence: unless you book, you will not get a seat. Until is time, not condition.

Meaning

Except if.

Examples

• “We will be late unless we leave now.”
• “Do not call unless there is an emergency.”
• “Unless it rains, the match will go ahead.”

Good to know

unless + present (for future meaning). = if not. Time word trap: until. Adverb neighbour: otherwise.

Near in meaning

if not

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