whether vs if

The words 'whether' and 'if' are both used to introduce a condition or choice, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Whether' is used when presenting two or more alternatives or possibilities, while 'if' is used when presenting a condition or possibility. They are not always interchangeable, so it's important to use them correctly based on the context.

Last updated: March 22, 2024 • 929 views

The word 'whether' is used to introduce two or more alternatives or possibilities.

"whether"

Use 'whether' when presenting a choice between two or more options or when indicating that something is true in either of two cases.

Examples:

I don't know whether I should go to the party or stay home.
She asked whether he wanted tea or coffee.

Show examples from the web [+]

Thinking about whether Arkadia is home.
I wondered whether we should speak again.
They doubted whether divine revelation absolutely excluded remarriage in cases of adultery.
Regardless of whether you are religious or not.
Altesse was wondering whether we should fire Mr Cornet.
Scholars disagree whether the dioptra was available that early.
McGrath proceeds to address whether religion specifically conflicts with science.
But it is unclear whether regional variation will allow high-resolution standardization.
It is unclear whether these coins circulated.
He's wrestling With whether movies should be art or commerce.
Identify whether a cross-sector national EPD exists in your country.
I mean whether you're still her dad.
Another question asks whether passwords should be encrypted.
Check whether DNG Capture Supported displays Yes or No.
Modify CAS4 key whether display error.
Specify whether the main activity is producing or trading.
For convertible instruments, specifies whether conversion is mandatory or optional.
Specify first whether immediate medical attention is required.
Ms Dodds asked whether the neighbourhood policy had failed.
Indication whether a derivative contract is tranched.

Alternatives:

I don't know if I should go to the party or stay home.
She asked if he wanted tea or coffee.

The word 'if' is used to introduce a condition or possibility.

"if"

Use 'if' to introduce a condition or a possibility that may or may not happen.

Examples:

If it rains, we will stay indoors.
I will go for a walk if the weather is nice.

Show examples from the web [+]

if. 1 of 2. conjunction · ˈif. əf.
If definition, in case that; granting or supposing that; on condition that: Sing if you want to. Stay indoors if it rains. I'll go if you do. See more.
IF function. Returns one value if a logical expression is `TRUE` and another if it is `FALSE`. Sample Usage.

Alternatives:

Whether it rains, we will stay indoors.
I will go for a walk whether the weather is nice.

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

whether vs if

"whether"

"if"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text