First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1if
conjunction \ˈif, əf\
—used to talk about the result or effect of something that may happen or be true
—used to discuss the imaginary result or effect of something that did not happen or that is or was not true
—used to say that something must happen before another thing can happen
Full Definition of IF
1
a : in the event that b : allowing that c : on the assumption that d : on condition that
2
: whether <asked if the mail had come> <I doubt if I'll pass the course>
3
—used as a function word to introduce an exclamation expressing a wish <if it would only rain>
4
: even though : although perhaps <an interesting if untenable argument>
5
: and perhaps not even <few if any changes are expected> —often used with not <difficult if not impossible>
— if anything
: on the contrary even : perhaps even <if anything, you ought to apologize>
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See if defined for kids
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Origin of IF
Middle English, from Old English gif; akin to Old High German ibu if
2if
noun \ˈif\
: something that is not certain : something that could either happen or not happen
Full Definition of IF
1
: condition, stipulation <the question … depends on too many ifs to allow an answer — Encounter>
2
See if defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of IF
1513
Related to IF
- Synonyms
- given, hypothetical, assumption, postulate, premise (also premiss), presumption, presupposition, supposition
IF Defined for Kids
if
conjunction \ˈif, əf\
Definition of IF for Kids
1
: in the event that <If it rains we'll stay home.>
2
: whether 1 <See if they have left.>
3
—used to introduce a wish <If only it would rain.>
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