Part of Speech

Adjective, Noun

Pronunciation

/kənˈdɪʃənl/

Definitions

• Adjective: Imposed or dependent on a condition; subject to specific circumstances. Example: "She made a conditional offer for the job."
• Adjective: Relating to, or involving a condition or stipulation. Example: "The contract has conditional terms."
• Noun: A grammatical form that expresses a situation or event that depends on something else. Example: "In English, the conditional mood is used to express hypothetical situations."

Usage Examples

• They offered a conditional invitation, pending approval from their manager.
• His acceptance of the offer was conditional upon meeting certain requirements.
• The project depends on a conditional agreement between both parties.

Etymology

From the Latin word "conditio" meaning "a state or situation" + the English suffix "-al," which forms adjectives indicating a relationship to something. The word "conditional" has been in use since the early 17th century.

Synonyms

• Dependent
• Contingent
• Subject
• Provisional
• Qualified

Antonyms

• Unconditional
• Absolute
• Unrestricted
• Unqualified

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, it is often pronounced with a soft "sh" sound: /kənˈdɪʃənəl/.
• In American English, it tends to have a clearer "sh" sound: /kənˈdɪʃənl/.

Historical Usage

The word "conditional" has been used in the English language since the early 17th century. Originally, it referred to terms or stipulations in contracts or agreements, and later came to be used in grammar to describe conditional statements or clauses. Over time, it broadened to describe anything dependent on particular conditions or circumstances.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the term "conditional" often refers to promises or agreements that depend on meeting certain requirements. For example, in legal contracts, it refers to terms that must be met for an agreement to be valid. In everyday language, "conditional" can also imply something temporary or provisional, such as a conditional approval based on certain conditions being fulfilled.

More Information

The term "conditional" is frequently used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in legal, contractual, and grammatical discussions. It is an essential part of understanding logical statements, as it expresses relationships that depend on specific conditions being met. Understanding the implications of conditional relationships can improve clarity in communication, whether in contracts, programming, or everyday conversations.