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Conditional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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conditional

[kənˈdɪʃənl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in grammar

Subject to one or more conditions or requirements being met; made or granted on certain terms.

Synonyms

contingent, dependent, provisional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
conditional

Use when something depends on a specific condition or set of conditions.

  • Her acceptance into the program is conditional upon her passing the entrance exam.
  • The deal was conditional, requiring approval from both parties.
dependent

Use when something directly relies on something else for its existence or outcome.

  • The plant's growth is dependent on sufficient sunlight and water.
  • The project's completion is dependent on additional funding.
contingent

Use when something is likely but not certain to happen; it usually involves a dependency on other events.

  • The outdoor event is contingent on the weather.
  • His success is contingent upon his ability to adapt quickly.
provisional

Use when something is temporary and may be subject to change or confirmation.

  • They gave him provisional approval for the new job position.
  • The schedule is provisional and may be revised later.

Examples of usage

  • If you agree to the terms and conditions, we can offer you a conditional discount.
  • His release from prison is conditional on good behavior.
  • The offer is conditional upon the completion of a successful background check.
Context #2 | Noun

in grammar

A conditional sentence or clause.

Synonyms

contingency, provision.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
conditional

Used when a situation is dependent on a specific condition being met.

  • Her acceptance into the program was conditional upon her passing the entrance exam.
  • The offer is conditional, so you need to agree to the terms first.
contingency

Refers to a future event or circumstance that is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty, often used in planning.

  • The company has a contingency plan in case of sudden economic downturns.
  • We should prepare for every contingency to ensure the project's success.
provision

Typically used in legal or formal contexts to refer to specific clauses or arrangements within a document.

  • The contract includes a provision for annual salary increases.
  • There is a provision in the law that allows for flexible working hours.

Examples of usage

  • The sentence 'If it rains, we will stay inside' contains a conditional.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'conditional'

The word 'conditional' originated from the Latin word 'conditionalis', which means 'pertaining to a condition'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe something that is subject to a condition or requirement. In grammar, the term 'conditional' refers to sentences or clauses that express a condition or hypothesis.

See also: conditionalist, conditioning, conditions, unconditional, unconditionally.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,174 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.