conditional

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.".

“Conditional” is pronounced kuhn-DIHSH-uh-nuhl (/kənˈdɪʃ.ə.nəl/ in IPA).

Here is “conditional” used in a sentence: “The job offer is conditional on passing a background check.”

Words with a similar meaning to “conditional” include conditioned, in logic, limited, relative, contingent and qualified.

The opposite of “conditional” — its antonyms — are absolute, categorical, unconditional, unfettered and unlimited.

Depending on how it is used, “conditional” can be an adjective and a noun.

The word “conditional” comes from French. From French conditionnel, from condition plus -al.

“Conditional” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

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.

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."

"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.