adjective / noun
conditional
kun-DISH-uh-nul/kənˈdɪʃənl/
Depending on a specified requirement being satisfied.
Entry is conditional on approval of your ticket.
Etymology
A condition was a stipulation in an agreement—a requirement to be met. Something conditional therefore depends on meeting such a requirement rather than applying without restriction.
In context
The Israelites relationship to the land is portrayed as conditional in the Bible based on covenantal obedience, not absolute ownership.
More examples
- The job offer is conditional on passing a background check.
- We practice the conditional with sentences like “I would go if invited.”
- In logic, a conditional states that if one thing holds, another follows.
Forms
conditional · conditionals
condition noun — A requirement that must be satisfied.
conditionally adverb — Only if specified requirements are met.
Similar words
- contingent
- Usually emphasizes dependence on an uncertain event or outcome.
- dependent
- Broader term for relying on something, not necessarily a requirement.