If, Unless, In Case, Provided That
We can express a condition in several ways. For example, we can use if.
- If you heat ice, it melts.
- If you give respect, you get respect.
Sometimes if is omitted.
- Had I been there, there would have been no problems. (= If I had been there, there would have been no problems.)
- Were I you, I wouldn’t refuse this offer. (= If I were you I would not refuse this offer.)
Expressing a condition using unless
We can express a condition using unless.
- Unless you give me the keys of the safe, you will be shot.
- Unless you agree to my proposal, you cannot expect any help from me.
By using a conjunctional phrase
A condition can be expressed using a conjunctional phrase like in case or but that.
- In case it rains, I shall put on my raincoat.
It is also possible to express a condition using a participial phrase.
- Supposing he does not come, what will you do?
- I will help you provided that you follow my instructions.
The same conditional sentence or idea may be expressed in a number of ways. Study the following examples carefully.
- You will win, if you study well.
- You will not win, unless you study well.
- You will win, provided that you study well.
- In case you study well, you will win.
- Supposing you study well, you will win
