Dictionary
English - French
If
ɪf
Extremely common
0 - 100
0 - 100
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
si, au cas où, si jamais, si seulement
If meanings in French
si
Example:
If it rains, we will stay inside.
S'il pleut, nous resterons à l'intérieur.
If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
Si tu étudies dur, tu réussiras l'examen.
Usage: informalContext: Used in conditional sentences to express a condition.
Note: In French, 'si' is commonly used in conditional clauses. It is important to note the verb tenses when forming the conditional.
au cas où
Example:
Take an umbrella if it rains.
Prends un parapluie au cas où il pleuvrait.
Let me know if you need help.
Fais-moi savoir au cas où tu aurais besoin d'aide.
Usage: informalContext: Used to express a precaution or a hypothetical situation.
Note: This phrase is used to indicate a precautionary measure and can be used in both spoken and written French.
si jamais
Example:
If you ever need anything, just call me.
Si jamais tu as besoin de quoi que ce soit, appelle-moi.
If you ever visit Paris, let me know.
Si jamais tu visites Paris, fais-le moi savoir.
Usage: informalContext: Used to express a possibility that may happen at any time.
Note: This expression emphasizes the uncertainty of the condition and is often used in conversational French.
si seulement
Example:
If only I had more time.
Si seulement j'avais plus de temps.
If only you had told me earlier.
Si seulement tu m'avais dit plus tôt.
Usage: informalContext: Used to express a wish or regret about a situation that is not true.
Note: This phrase conveys a sense of longing or regret and is often used in hypothetical discussions.
If's synonyms
If
The word 'if' is a conjunction used to introduce a condition or supposition.
Example: If it rains, we will stay indoors.
Note:
In case
'In case' is used to suggest a precaution or possibility of something happening.
Example: In case of rain, we will move the party indoors.
Note: Slightly more formal than 'if'.
Provided that
'Provided that' is used to establish a condition that must be met for something to happen.
Example: You can go out, provided that you finish your homework first.
Note: More formal and emphasizes a condition being fulfilled.
Assuming
'Assuming' is used to indicate a hypothesis or supposition.
Example: Assuming it doesn't rain, we can have a picnic.
Note: Suggests a hypothetical situation or premise.
On the condition that
'On the condition that' is used to specify a requirement for something to happen.
Example: You can borrow my car on the condition that you return it by 5 pm.
Note: Emphasizes a specific condition that must be met.
If expressions, common phrases
If only
This phrase is used to express regret about something that did not happen in the past.
Example: If only I had studied harder, I would have passed the exam.
Note: The addition of 'only' emphasizes the strong desire or wish for a different outcome.
What if
This phrase is used to pose a hypothetical situation or question about a possible future event.
Example: What if it rains tomorrow? Should we bring umbrellas?
Note: It introduces a speculative scenario for consideration.
If so
This phrase is used to introduce a conditional clause based on a preceding question or statement.
Example: Are you attending the meeting tomorrow? If so, I'll see you there.
Note: It seeks confirmation or affirmation of a specific condition.
If not
This phrase is used to present an alternative or fallback option if the condition is not met.
Example: Do you want to go out for dinner? If not, we can order in.
Note: It implies a choice or decision based on the negation of the initial condition.
If and when
This phrase is used to express a condition that is dependent on another condition happening in the future.
Example: I'll buy a new car if and when I get a raise at work.
Note: It emphasizes the dual nature of the condition, indicating both the possibility and timing of an event.
If anything
This phrase is used to offer assistance or support in case of any unforeseen events or issues.
Example: Feel free to call me if anything comes up while I'm away.
Note: It conveys a general readiness to help without specifying a particular condition.
If need be
This phrase is used to indicate a willingness to do something if it becomes necessary or required.
Example: I can stay late at work if need be to finish the project on time.
Note: It suggests preparedness to act if the situation demands it.
If at all
This phrase is used to express a preference or recommendation for fulfilling a condition, even if it is challenging.
Example: Please arrive early if at all possible to secure a good seat.
Note: It implies a strong desire or preference for the condition to be met, even if only partially.
If everyday (slang) expressions
If you know what I mean
This phrase is used to imply that the listener should understand the hidden or implied meaning of what was just said.
Example: I'll take care of it, but we need to keep it between us, if you know what I mean.
Note: It adds a sense of secrecy or understanding to the conversation.
As if
This phrase is used to express doubt or disbelief regarding a statement or situation.
Example: She said she wasn't interested in him, but I saw the way she looked at him, as if she was totally smitten.
Note: It dismisses the preceding statement or action as unrealistic or insincere.
If worst comes to worst
This phrase is used to introduce a potential outcome that is considered the most severe or extreme in a given situation.
Example: We can try to fix it ourselves, but if worst comes to worst, we'll have to call a professional.
Note: It emphasizes preparing for the most undesirable outcome in a scenario.
If push comes to shove
This phrase is used to indicate a point in a situation where decisive action or a difficult choice needs to be made.
Example: I prefer not to intervene, but if push comes to shove, I'll have to step in and resolve the issue.
Note: It implies a situation where a critical decision or action must be taken when circumstances become challenging or pressing.
If all else fails
This phrase is used to introduce a last-resort course of action when all other options have been exhausted.
Example: We'll try to negotiate terms, but if all else fails, we'll have to walk away from the deal.
Note: It highlights that the subsequent action is a final option after exploring various alternatives.
If you must know
This phrase is used to introduce a direct response to a question or inquiry that the speaker perceives as intrusive or unnecessary.
Example: If you must know, I didn't attend the party because I was feeling unwell.
Note: It hints at the speaker's reluctance or slight disapproval of the interrogative nature of the listener.
If - Examples
If it rains, we will stay at home.
S'il pleut, nous resterons à la maison.
If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
Si tu étudies dur, tu réussiras l'examen.
If I have time tomorrow, I will go to the gym.
Si j'ai le temps demain, j'irai à la salle de sport.
If she calls me back, I will tell her the news.
Si elle me rappelle, je lui dirai les nouvelles.
If grammar
If - Subordinating conjunction (Subordinating conjunction) / Preposition or subordinating conjunction (Preposition or subordinating conjunction)
Lemma: if
Conjugations
Syllables, Separation and Stress
If Contains 1 syllables: if
Phonetic transcription: ˈif
if , ˈif (The red syllable is stressed)
If - Importance and usage frequency
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000.
If: 0 - 100 (Extremely common).
This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.