If vs. Whether

416-800-9257 • toll free: 1-855-800-9257info@reword.ca
RE:WORDED
This is where we get to write all the stuff our clients don’t let us write.
You could say it’s our place to blow off a bit of steam — and drop the occasional F-bomb.

If vs. Whether

if whetherWe can always question whether we’re using the right conditional word, even if it’s grammatically correct.

In many cases, if and whether can be used interchangeably. But there is a time and place where each one serves its own purpose more effectively. These discrepancies (although not a major mistake and often overlooked) still have the power to make some editors cringe.

If and whether are used to introduce or compare either unknown factors or future plans.

If is used more so when asking a question, or in more casual instances.

Whether is used more so in a statement or reflection of the said question (as commentary, for example), or in more formal instances.

See the differences in the following examples:

I don’t know if I should get chocolate or vanilla ice cream.

The boy was unsure whether to get vanilla or chocolate ice cream.

What if there is no ice cream left by the time we get there?

We weren’t sure whether there would be any ice cream left over by the time we got there.

How Can We Help You?

If it’s on the list, we can do it. If it’s not on the list, we can probably still do it. Either way, let’s talk.

Privacy PolicyTerms of Use








    And it's off!

    Thanks! As soon as your request makes it through cyberspace, we’ll give it a look. Until then, enjoy the best of Niles Crane. Pound for pound, there’s never been a better TV character.