American English

How to pronounce unless

conjunctionB1Very common word
uhnLEHS

/ənˈlɛs/

2 syllables · Stress the second syllable.

Except if; used to say that something will happen only when a particular condition does not happen.

Practice out loud

Meanings & examples

conjunction

Except if; used to say that something will happen only when a particular condition does not happen.

We won't leave unless the rain stops.

You can't enter unless you have a ticket.

Good to know

Unless often means “if not,” so an extra not can change the meaning. For a future condition, use the present form after unless, not will.

Common phrases & grammar

unless + subject + verb, subject + will + verb

subject + will + verb + unless + subject + verb

Useful expressions

unless otherwise stated

except when a different instruction or condition is given

The prices are final unless otherwise stated.