conj.
- introducing a conditional clause:
▸on the condition or supposition that.
▸(with past tense) introducing a hypothetical situation.
▸every time.
- despite the possibility that.
▸despite being.
- whether.
- expressing a polite request or tentative opinion.
- expressing surprise or regret.
n.
a condition or supposition.
Phrase
- if and only if
used to introduce a condition which is necessary as well as sufficient. - if anything
used to suggest tentatively that something may be the case. - if not
perhaps even (used to introduce a more extreme term than one first mentioned). - if only
even if for no other reason than. - if so
if that is the case.
Etymology
OE gif, of Gmc origin.