Basic Details
Word: Unless
Part of Speech: Conjunction
Meaning: Used to say that something will not happen or be true if a particular thing does not happen.
Synonyms: Except, if not
Antonyms: If, provided
Idioms and Phrases
- Except for: Used to indicate that something is not included. Example: "I would enjoy this picnic, except for the rain."
- Not unless: Used to indicate that one thing will not happen without another. Example: "I will not go to the party, not unless my friend comes with me."
Usage Examples
Example 1: I will not finish my homework unless I stay focused and avoid distractions.
Example 2: The game will be cancelled unless it stops raining soon.
Example 3: Unless you study hard, you may not do well in your exams.
Fun Fact
The word "unless" comes from the Old English "unles" which means "if not." It has been used for over a thousand years to express conditions in language.
Famous Quote
"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." Albert Schweitzer
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "unless" mean?
a) Something will happen
b) Something will not happen if a condition is not met
c) A happy situation
d) A type of event
Answer: b) Something will not happen if a condition is not met
2. Which of these is a synonym of "unless"?
a) Because
b) Except
c) Therefore
d) Meanwhile
Answer: b) Except
3. What is an antonym of "unless"?
a) Except for
b) If
c) Because
d) Unless not
Answer: b) If
4. Which sentence uses "unless" correctly?
a) I will go shopping unless it rains.
b) I will eat lunch unless I am hungry.
c) I will not play outside unless I have a ball.
d) I will play unless I am tired.
Answer: c) I will not play outside unless I have a ball.
5. Which idiom means the same as "unless"?
a) Not unless
b) Except for the rain
c) If and when
d) As busy as a bee
Answer: a) Not unless
