conditional

Everyday

1. Depending on something else happening first; only true or allowed if a condition is met. tree →
2. (grammar) A sentence or verb form with "if", like "If it rains, we will stay in." tree →
3. (maths, computing) A conditional statement says "if this, then that". tree →

In the lessons

Used in grammar lessons (conditional sentences), computing and maths (if-then statements), and everyday life (a conditional offer, "your pocket money is conditional on doing chores"). It tells the reader something only happens if something else does. Phrases: conditional on, conditional offer, conditional sentence, conditional love.

Examples

• My trip to the park is conditional on finishing my homework. tree →
• "If you heat ice, it melts" is a conditional sentence. tree →
• In coding, a conditional tells the computer what to do if something is true. tree →
• She got a conditional offer from the university. tree →
• The prize is conditional on good behaviour. tree →
• Use the conditional: "I would help if I could." tree →
• Parents' love should not be conditional on good marks. tree →

Note

Usually "conditional on" (or "upon") something. Opposite: unconditional (no conditions, like unconditional love). Adverb: conditionally. In maths logic: "if P, then Q" does not mean "if Q, then P".