unless
pronunciation
How to pronounce unless in British English:
UK [ənˈles]
How to pronounce unless in American English:
US [ənˈles]
Word Origin
- unless (conj.)
- mid-15c., earlier onlesse, from (not) on lesse (than) "(not) on a less compelling condition (than);" see less. The first syllable originally on, but the negative connotation and the lack of stress changed it to un-. "Except could once be used as a synonym for unless, but the words have now drawn entirely apart" [Century Dictionary].
Example
- 1. This poses no threat , unless you show fear .
- 2. We never know we will succeed unless we actually try .
- 3. Unless I divorce her , of course .
- 4. Unless you 're on a treadmill .
- 5. Unless you count former president george w. bush .