Definitions

unless

[uhn-les, uhn-] / ʌnˈlɛs, ən- /

CONJUNCTION

except that

Synonyms

WEAK

but except except for excepting that if not lest saving without

CONJUNCTION

upon any less condition than

Synonyms

WEAK

except nisi saving

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Unless extra supplies can be found, a lack of fuel could lead to further disruption and cancellations heading into the peak summer holiday period.

From BBC • May 3, 2026

"Unless the international community directly resources the Puntland institutions that police this coastline, neither the immediate threat nor the political economy sustaining it gets resolved."

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

Unless you’re a gambler addicted to risk-taking, you should avoid these stocks — if not sell them short.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

Unless James can juke Father Time and pull off another odds-defying dead lift for the ages.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

“Ever. Unless you want to make things worse.”

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt