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.

You don’t bring in the highest-paid closer in history and then not use him in consecutive save situations unless something was wrong.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

Someone who was great fun to be around but also very calm - unless he was playing on the PlayStation.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

"Over time the decline is stark and unless we talk more about this issue, then it may be a decline that we're never going to be able to arrest."

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

But they can’t stop their teen’s trades or withdrawals unless they close the account.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Vinny could not believe that Deutsche Bank would let this guy loose to run around and torpedo their market unless it served the narrow interests of Deutsche Bank.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis