Unless, As Long As, Provided (That): How to Use These Words Correctly?

For English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners, mastering the nuances of conjunctions can greatly enhance your language skills. Three common conjunctions that often cause confusion are “unless, as long as, provided (that).” Let’s delve into their meanings, appropriate verb tenses, and usage with examples.

Unless, As Long As, Provided (That): How to Use These Words Correctly?

1. Unless:

Meaning: “Unless” introduces a condition that will result in an action if not met. It means “except if”.

Examples:

1. I won’t go to the party unless you invite me.
2. Unless you study harder, you won’t pass the exam.
3. She’ll be late unless she leaves now.
4. Unless it rains, we’ll have a picnic tomorrow.
5. I won’t buy the car unless it’s in good condition.

2. As Long As/So long as:

Meaning: “As long as” expresses a condition that, if met, ensures the outcome mentioned.

Examples:

1. I’ll be happy as long as you’re with me.
2. As long as you finish your homework, you can play video games.
3. I’ll keep the job so long as they pay me well.
4. You can borrow my car as long as you promise to drive carefully.
5. So long as the weather is good, we’ll have a picnic.

3. Provided (That)/Providing:

Meaning: “Provided (that)” sets a condition that must be fulfilled for something to happen.

Examples:

1. You can come to the party provided (that) you bring a gift.
2. I’ll help you with your project provided (that) you do your share of the work.
3. We can go on a trip providing (that) we save enough money.
4. You can use my computer provided (that) you don’t damage it.
5. The meeting will be successful providing (that) everyone attends on time.

IMPORTANT

Don’t use will after unless, as/so long as, provided/providing (that). Use the present simple to make a reference to a future time.

Example:

1. You’ll be late, unless you take a taxi.
2. We are going to the beach tomorrow as long as the weather is good.
3. Provided  the weather is bad, we are going to stay at home.

Understanding these conjunctions and their appropriate verb tenses can significantly improve your English proficiency. Practice using them in context to become more confident in your communication skills.