Meaning of "if" in English

The word "if" functions as a conjunction in English, often used to introduce a conditional clause or a hypothetical scenario. It sets up a situation where one thing will happen if another condition is met. "If" is instrumental in forming conditional sentences, such as "If it rains, we will stay indoors." Additionally, "if" can express doubt or a question about possibilities. As a versatile tool in English, "if" allows for discussions about potential events, possibilities, and dependencies between actions or events.

Meaning of "if" in French

In French, the word "if" serves as a conjunction similarly to its use in English. It is used to introduce conditions, expressing the idea that something will happen or be true only if another thing happens or is true. For example, "Si tu viens, je serai content" means "If you come, I will be happy." In hypothetical or conditional statements, "if" (translated as "si" in French) is a critical part of forming complex sentences that address potential events or scenarios.

Pronunciation of "if" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ɪf/

The pronunciation of "if" in English is generally consistent across different dialects, with slight variations in the vowel sound. In certain regional dialects, the vowel may sound shorter or more clipped. However, the basic phonetic quality remains largely stable, making it a straightforward word to pronounce for English speakers.

Pronunciation of "if" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /si/

In French, "if" (si) is pronounced with a clear 's' sound, similar to the English 'see'. The word is typically pronounced consistently across various French-speaking regions, although minor variations in intonation may occur. However, the general pronunciation remains uniform, allowing it to be easily recognized in conversation.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. If it rains, we will cancel the picnic. (Si il pleut, nous annulerons le pique-nique.)
  2. If you pass the exam, you will be very happy. (Si tu réussis l'examen, tu seras très heureux.)
  3. If she calls, please let me know. (Si elle appelle, s'il te plaît fais-le moi savoir.)
  4. If they arrive early, ask them to wait. (S'ils arrivent en avance, demande-leur d'attendre.)
  5. If I forget, remind me tomorrow. (Si j'oublie, rappelle-moi demain.)
  6. If he is busy, I will come back later. (S'il est occupé, je reviendrai plus tard.)
  7. If the store is closed, we can shop online. (Si le magasin est fermé, nous pouvons acheter en ligne.)
  8. If you are tired, you should rest. (Si tu es fatigué, tu devrais te reposer.)
  9. If we hurry, we might catch the train. (Si nous nous dépêchons, nous pourrions attraper le train.)
  10. If it's possible, let's meet at noon. (Si c'est possible, retrouvons-nous à midi.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "if" in English

Synonyms: provided, on condition that, supposing, assuming, in case, granting, considering.

Antonyms: -.

Similar Words: whether, though, unless, when.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "if" in French

Synonyms: à condition que, en supposant que, dans le cas où, pourvu que, supposé que, en admettant que.

Antonyms: -.

Similar Words: lorsque, bien que, sauf si, quand.

Disclaimer: These examples may contain sensitive content that does not reflect the opinions or policies of Translate.com, or its company Translate LLC. We welcome feedback: report an example sentence to our team.

Reach the world with ease! Use human-powered translations to ensure your message is understood by all. Available in 110+ language pairs
Order human translation

Translate if into other languages