What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unless
Example
I won't go to the party unless you come with me. [unless: conjunction]
Example
Unless you study hard, you won't pass the exam. [unless: conjunction]
without
Example
I can't cook without salt. [without: preposition]
Example
She went to the store without her phone. [without: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Without is more commonly used than unless in everyday language. Without is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while unless is more limited in its usage and often appears in conditional sentences.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unless and without?
Both unless and without are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
