unless
Translation
unless, except if
Examples
You will fail unless you study.
You will fail unless you study.
I won't go unless you come with me.
I won't go unless you come with me.
Grammar Patterns
((clause)) unless ((clause)) if not... You will fail unless you study.
Similar Words
Synonyms: except if, if not
Etymology
From Middle English 'on lesse' meaning 'on a less condition'. It's a combination of 'on' and 'less'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as meaning 'if not'. 'You will fail IF you do NOT study' is the same as 'You will fail UNLESS you study'.