If or Whether?
If or Whether?
Keep it simple. Use "if" to introduce a condition. In all other circumstances, use "whether." (This ruling will see you right, but there are other options.)A condition is something that must be satisfied before something else occurs. For example (conditions shaded):
- If it rains, bring in the tables. ("If it rains" is a condition. This is called a conditional sentence.)
- Add a point if I get the right answer. ("If I get the right answer" is a condition. This is another example of a conditional sentence.)


Click on the Two Correct Sentences
(Interactive Game)
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More about "If" and "Whether"
The words "if" and "whether" are sometimes interchangeable. However, this is not always the case.Whether and If (Interchangeable)
"Whether" and "if" can be used interchangeably in the following two circumstances:(1) When reporting yes/no questions.
- I am unsure whether I will be attending the party.
- I am unsure if I will be attending the party.
- Janice wondered whether she had unplugged the iron.
- Janice wondered if she had unplugged the iron.
- I would like to know whether it is a true story or fabricated.
- I would like to know if it is a true story or fabricated.
Whether
In the following five circumstances, "whether" should be used:(1) To present two alternatives (neither of which is a condition).
- Inform the clerk whether Mark needs a seat.
- Inform the clerk if Mark needs a seat.
- Let Anna know whether the boss is able to go to Crowborough.
- Let Anna know if the boss is able to go to Crowborough.
- I would like to talk about whether you are going to California.
- At this point, the flight attendant makes the decision on whether the passenger stays on the aircraft.
- I have been thinking whether to grow my own tomatoes this year.
- Whether you sink or swim is not my concern.
- I don't care whether you sink or swim.
When "if" and "whether" are interchangeable, choose "whether" in formal writing.
- I doubt whether the team will succeed.
- Please establish a committee to determine whether the proposed funding lines are appropriate.
If
Use "if" to introduce a condition (i.e., in a conditional sentence). In a conditional sentence, a condition has to be satisfied before something occurs.Examples:
- If you sing, I'll pay you ten pounds.
- Peter will catch you if you fall.
The Phrase "Whether or Not"
When using the phrase "whether or not," the "or not" is often superfluous (i.e., not required). However, when "whether or not" means "regardless of whether," the "or not" part is required.Example sentences with "whether or not":
- Reprimand Chris whether or not he is on time today.
- The parade will go ahead whether it rains or not.
(Note: There is leniency on where the "or not" is placed. It does not have to follow immediately after "whether.")
Interactive Exercise
Here are three randomly selected questions from a larger exercise, which can be edited, printed to create an exercise worksheet, or sent via email to friends or students.- Do you disagree with something on this page?
- Did you spot a typo?