unless

[ uhn-les, uhn- ]

conjunction

1. except under the circumstances that:

   I'll be there at nine, unless the train is late.

preposition

1. except; but; save:

   Nothing will come of it, unless disaster.

unless

/ ʌnˈlɛs /

conjunction

1. subordinating except under the circumstances that; except on the condition that

   they'll sell it unless he hears otherwise

preposition

1. rare.
   except

Word History and Origins

Origin of unless¹

1400–50; late ME prepositional phrase on less (also o less(e) , earlier upon less ) on a lesser footing or condition (than); first used as a preposition and conjunction in the early 16th century; on, less

Word History and Origins

Origin of unless¹

C14: onlesse , from on on + lesse less ; compare French à moins que, literally: at less than

Example Sentences

How’s this all going over in the Senate, which will have to confirm Gaetz’s appointment by majority vote, unless Trump tries some sort of end-around “adjournment” and “recess appointment” gambit that would create an instant constitutional crisis?

From Slate

"Our findings provide a clear recommendation for treatment practices: psychotic-like experiences should be assessed as part of routine procedures, but it is also important to determine how they are perceived. These phenomena cannot be uncovered unless separately and systematically asked," says the principal investigator, Docent Niklas Granö.

From Science Daily

You don’t have to go that far in advance, but unless you’re a regular market visitor, make sure to tour both markets at least a day before you’re ready to buy, to discuss prices and availability with the vendors.

From Los Angeles Times

City employees may not seek or collect information about an individual’s citizenship or immigration status, unless the information is necessary to provide a city service.

From Los Angeles Times

Already, a state law — pushed by then-state Sen. Kevin de León, now a council member who recently lost his reelection bid — limits local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration agents unless the person has been convicted of certain crimes.

From Los Angeles Times