unless

American  

[uhn-les, uhn-] / ʌnˈlɛs, ən- /

conjunction

1. except under the circumstances that.

   I'll be there at nine, unless the train is late.

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preposition

1. except; but; save.

   Nothing will come of it, unless disaster.

unless British  

/ ʌnˈlɛs /

conjunction

1. (subordinating) except under the circumstances that; except on the condition that

   they'll sell it unless he hears otherwise

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preposition

1. rare except

Etymology

Origin of unless

1400–50; late ME prepositional phrase on less (also o less(e) , earlier upon less ) on a lesser footing or condition (than); first used as a preposition and conjunction in the early 16th century; on, less

Example Sentences

I’m definitely a plastic shovel type of guy, unless we’re going through the ice.

From Slate

For example, the Florida Constitution states: “Any method of execution shall be allowed, unless prohibited by the United States Constitution. Methods of execution may be designated by the legislature, and a change in any method of execution may be applied retroactively.”

From Slate

And unless Tottenham can arrest their slump, that would equate to a further seven points, taking them to 36 on the final day of the season.

From BBC

“Unless there’s something actionable after the fact it’s not really economic impact, it’s more economic valuation,” Wright said.

From Los Angeles Times

Yet, unless I’m mistaken, you only had to give him one show.

From Salon