"if" vs "whether"

Question

"if" vs "whether"

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

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.

Alternatives:

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

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.

Alternatives:

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

Answer 1

if

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

Answer 2

whether

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

"if" vs "whether"

if

whether

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