“If” vs. “When”: What’s the Difference?
Jul 3, 2023
Engram
The difference between “if” and “when”
- The main difference between "if" and "when" is the level of certainty of an event occurring.
- "If" implies uncertainty or doubt, while "when" indicates inevitability or expectation.
- Another difference lies in the context of their usage; "if" is typically used for hypothetical or conditional situations, while "when" is used for things that are expected to happen.
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What is the definition of “if” and “when”?
If
- "If" is a subordinating conjunction used to introduce a condition or hypothetical situation.
- It is often used to express uncertainty or doubt about an event occurring.
- Its usage implies that the event or situation may or may not actually transpire.
When
- "When" is a conjunction used to introduce an event or situation that is expected to occur.
- It indicates a certainty about the occurrence of the event.
- It is often used to express a sense of inevitability or expectation.
Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?
“If” is the more popular variant on the web.
More popular
If
16,650,000,000 results on the web
Examples
- If it rains tomorrow, I will stay indoors.
- If you work hard, you will achieve success.
- If I had enough money, I would travel the world.
When
15,800,000,000 results on the web
Examples
- When I wake up early, I feel more productive.
- When she finishes her work, she will join us.
- When John arrives, we can start the meeting.
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