conditional
8 synonyms and 6 antonyms for conditional, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Depending on something else being true or happening first.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use conditional
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From French conditionnel, from condition plus -al.
Full origin of conditional →Frequently asked questions
What does “conditional” mean?
The word “conditional” means depending on something else being true or happening first. In plain terms, dependent on a condition being met — or, in grammar, a sentence built around an "if.".
How do you pronounce “conditional”?
“Conditional” is pronounced kuhn-DIHSH-uh-nuhl (/kənˈdɪʃ.ə.nəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “conditional” in a sentence?
Here is “conditional” used in a sentence: “The job offer is conditional on passing a background check.”
What is another word for “conditional”?
Words with a similar meaning to “conditional” include conditioned, in logic, limited, relative, contingent and qualified.
What is the opposite of “conditional”?
The opposite of “conditional” — its antonyms — are absolute, categorical, unconditional, unfettered and unlimited.
What part of speech is “conditional”?
Depending on how it is used, “conditional” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “conditional” come from?
The word “conditional” comes from French. From French conditionnel, from condition plus -al.
Is “conditional” a common word?
“Conditional” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
What is the difference between "conditional" and "unconditional"?
Something "conditional" depends on something else being true or happening first, while something "unconditional" applies regardless of any conditions or requirements. An unconditional offer stands no matter what happens, whereas a conditional offer only takes effect if a specified condition is met.
What is the conditional tense in grammar?
In grammar, the conditional is a sentence or verb form expressing something that depends on a condition, typically using structures like "if X, then Y would happen." English commonly forms it with "would" plus a base verb, as in "I would go if it stopped raining."
What is the difference between "conditional" and "contingent"?
"Conditional" and "contingent" both describe something that depends on another event or circumstance, and they are close synonyms. "Contingent" is somewhat more common in formal or legal writing, such as a contingent offer on a house sale, while "conditional" is used more broadly across everyday and grammatical contexts.