if

if is on the Basic English 850 List.

idea - if - ill

if is one of the 1000 most common headwords.

identify - if - imagine

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ɪf/
• SAMPA: /If/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Preposition

Preposition if

1. Used to denote a condition.

   If it rains, I will get wet.

   I'd prefer it if you took your shoes off.

2. although

   He was a great friend, if a little strange.

3. When ... occurs (a programming statement).

   If A, then B, else C.

Subordinator

Subordinator if

1. If is used to report questions and things that are unknown.
   • Synonym: whether

   She asked if they had arrived yet.

   I don't know if I want to go or not.

   It doesn't matter if you have money or not.

Noun

Singular if

Plural ifs

1. If is a conditional situation.

   There are many ifs we need to consider before we start on the plan.