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Victo Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

“Whether” vs. “If”

Are whether and if basically interchangeable? I've read all the grammatical hoopla on the Net. I do know that whether is used in a more formal arena.

Do we have to ensure that we are making the finest distinction, every time, when using them?

Basically, are these okay?

I don't know if I should go.
I don't know whether I should go.

Thank you.
  

Top answer

victo Basically, are these okay? Yes. I prefer if .

  • victo Basically, are these okay?
  • Yes.
  • I prefer if .
  • When an alternative is mentioned, whether is ideal: I don’t know whether I should go or stay.
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2 Answers
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victoBasically, are these okay?
Yes. I prefer if.

When an alternative is mentioned, whether is ideal: I don’t know whether I should go or stay.
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victoAre whether and if basically interchangeable?
Absolutely not.

If you are tired, you should rest. (Correct)
Whether you are tired, you should rest. (Not correct)

whether can substitute for if, and often does, in an indirect yes-no question.

No one had any idea if/whether Jack was going to be late. (Rel

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