“IF”

It is said that “if” is the biggest word in the English dictionary.

Of course it isn’t. It’s just that the word “if” opens up all kinds

of possibilities and can be used in all kinds of ways.

For example: If the weather is good tomorrow I will go to the beach

You can see that “if” in this case is used to refer to a situation where the outcome is not certain. Or put another way, one thing must occur (good weather) for another thing (go to the beach) to happen.

If can also be used to suggest an alternative by adding “what” as in “what if” to a sentence.

For example:  What if we take my car for a change.

or we can change the format slightly by adding, “if it’s ok” to a sentence.

For example:  If it’s ok with you we will take my car for a change.

If can also be used to ask a question.

For example:  If I pay will you come out to dinner?

Another use is giving advice.

For example:  If you stop smoking your health will improve.

Or  Your health will improve if you stop smoking.

If can be used to confirm.

For example:  Yes, I will go if you will.

If can also be used with Should or Probably.

For example:  If you turn the key the car should start now.

And  If you say sorry she’ll probably forgive you.