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Definition of unless

unless

/ənˈlɛs/
un · less
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unless Lexical Profile

unless Game Scores & Validity

• conjunction

1

Except on the condition that; under any other circumstance than.

Example

"The outdoor concert will proceed as scheduled unless a severe thunderstorm develops."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for unless

• preposition

1

Except; apart from; with the exception of (now rare or literary, except before a prepositional phrase or adverb).

Example

"Nothing more can be done to resolve the dispute unless by mutual agreement."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for unless
Antonyms
View all antonyms for unless

Word Nuance & Usage

Because 'unless' inherently expresses a negative condition ('except if'), using an additional negative word like 'not' in the same clause creates a confusing double negative or reverses the intended meaning.

• Rhymes for unless

• Nearby Words

unlearned
unleash
unleavened
unless
unlettable
unlettered
unlevel

Word Origin & Etymology

Evolved from the Middle English phrase 'on lesse that' (meaning 'on a lesser condition than'), where 'on' later shifted to 'un-' through association with the negative prefix.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Unless. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/unless
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