除非...
Unless...
Littéralement: 除 (except) 括 (include) ...
Use `除非` to define the one specific exception that would change your current plan or decision.
En 15 secondes
- Sets a single condition for a result to change.
- Often paired with 'otherwise' or 'only then' structures.
- Works for both firm ultimatums and casual exceptions.
Signification
This phrase is used to set a specific condition that must happen for something else to change. It's like saying 'everything stays the same, except if this one thing happens.'
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Setting a condition for a party
除非你请客，否则我不去。
Unless you're paying, I'm not going.
Professional deadline
除非有突发情况，我们会按时完成。
Unless there is an emergency, we will finish on time.
A humorous diet rule
我再也不吃甜食了，除非是巧克力。
I'm never eating sweets again, unless it's chocolate.
Contexte culturel
The phrase has roots in classical Chinese logic, emphasizing the 'sole condition.' It is culturally significant because it reflects the importance of 'Mianzi' (face) and clear boundaries in social contracts. It is universally understood across mainland China, Taiwan, and Singapore.
The 'Otherwise' Partner
Pair `除非` with `否则` to sound like a logic pro. It makes your conditions sound very professional and clear.
Don't Sound Too Harsh
Using `除非` can sound like an ultimatum. If you want to be softer, add a particle like `吧` at the end of the sentence.
En 15 secondes
- Sets a single condition for a result to change.
- Often paired with 'otherwise' or 'only then' structures.
- Works for both firm ultimatums and casual exceptions.
What It Means
除非 is your go-to word for setting boundaries. It acts as a gatekeeper in your sentences. It tells people that a certain outcome is locked away. Only one specific key can open it. In English, we simply say "unless." It creates a strong conditional link between two ideas.
How To Use It
You usually place 除非 at the start of a clause. It is very often paired with 否则 (otherwise) or 才 (only then). For example, "除非 you ask me, 否则 I won't go." It sounds very logical and firm. You can also use it alone to answer a question. If someone asks if you'll eat cilantro, you can say "除非 I'm starving."
When To Use It
Use it when you want to be clear about your limits. It works great in negotiations or setting personal rules. It’s perfect for office deadlines or making deals with friends. Use it when you want to sound decisive. It shows you have a clear plan or a firm stance. It’s a favorite for parents and bosses alike.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for simple 'if' statements. If the condition isn't an 'exception,' use 如果 instead. Avoid using it if you want to sound soft or flexible. It can sound a bit like an ultimatum if you aren't careful. Don't use it in very casual slang clusters where 要不是 fits better. It’s a bit too structured for a messy emotional outburst.
Cultural Background
Chinese culture values clear logical structures in formal agreements. 除非 reflects a traditional way of thinking about necessity and sufficiency. It has been used in legal and philosophical texts for centuries. Today, it’s a staple of modern Mandarin across all regions. It bridges the gap between ancient logic and daily chatter.
Common Variations
You will often hear 除非...才... in daily life. This emphasizes that the condition is the *only* way. In formal writing, you might see 除非...不.... This double negative adds a layer of serious authority. In texting, people sometimes just drop the 除非 and use the context. But for you, sticking to the full version is safer.
Notes d'usage
The phrase is neutral and highly versatile. It works in legal contracts and casual banter. Just remember that it sounds more 'final' than a simple 'if' (如果).
The 'Otherwise' Partner
Pair `除非` with `否则` to sound like a logic pro. It makes your conditions sound very professional and clear.
Don't Sound Too Harsh
Using `除非` can sound like an ultimatum. If you want to be softer, add a particle like `吧` at the end of the sentence.
The Silent 'Unless'
In Chinese culture, people sometimes avoid saying 'no' directly. They use `除非` to set an impossible condition as a polite way to decline.
Exemples
6除非你请客，否则我不去。
Unless you're paying, I'm not going.
A classic use with 'otherwise' (否则).
除非有突发情况，我们会按时完成。
Unless there is an emergency, we will finish on time.
Professional and reassuring.
我再也不吃甜食了，除非是巧克力。
I'm never eating sweets again, unless it's chocolate.
Shows a funny exception to a rule.
除非你写完作业，否则不能玩游戏。
Unless you finish your homework, you can't play games.
Very common 'if-then' logic for parents.
除非下大雨，我肯定准时到。
Unless it rains heavily, I'll definitely be on time.
Short and clear for messaging.
除非世界末日，我不会离开你。
Unless it's the end of the world, I won't leave you.
Using an extreme condition for emphasis.
Teste-toi
Choose the best word to complete the conditional sentence.
___ 你道歉，我才原谅你。
The use of '才' (only then) in the second half suggests that '道歉' (apologizing) is the sole necessary condition.
Complete the sentence to mean 'Unless it's free, I don't want it.'
___ 是免费的，我不要。
除非 sets the 'free' status as the only exception to not wanting it.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality of 除非
Used with friends for simple exceptions.
除非你求我！(Unless you beg me!)
Standard daily communication.
除非下雨，我们去公园。(Unless it rains, we go to the park.)
Legal or business contracts.
除非双方同意，合同不得更改。(Unless both parties agree...)
When to use 除非
Negotiating a price
除非便宜点...
Dieting/Habits
除非是周末...
Work Commitments
除非老板要求...
Weather Plans
除非刮台风...
Questions fréquentes
11 questionsIt means 'unless' or 'only if.' It introduces a condition that is the only exception to a situation.
Use the structure 除非...才... to mean 'Only if A happens, will B happen.' For example: 除非你来，我才去。
Not at all! It's very common in texts when setting plans, like 除非你不方便 (unless it's inconvenient for you).
Usually, it starts the clause, but in casual speech, you can add it as an afterthought: 我不去，除非你请客。
如果 is a general 'if,' while 除非 is a specific 'except if.' 除非 is much stronger.
No, it can stand alone if the context is clear, especially when answering a question.
It's a strong way to say something MUST happen. 除非你努力，否则不会成功 (Unless you work hard, you won't succeed).
Not exactly a slang word, but people often shorten the whole thought to just 除非呢？ meaning 'Unless what?'
Yes, it shows clear thinking. 除非有特殊要求，我倾向于独立工作。
The usage is very consistent across the Mandarin-speaking world, from Beijing to Taipei.
Forgetting the 'result' part. Make sure the listener knows what happens (or doesn't happen) if the condition isn't met.
Expressions liées
要不是
If it weren't for...
只有...才...
Only if... then...
否则
Otherwise
万一
Just in case / If by any chance
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