Grammar Entry 675 / 1011 60-second read

If (whether) vs. Whether

Formal writing prefers WHETHER.

The comparisoni

✗ Wrong

Tell me if you can come.

✓ Correct

Tell me whether you can come.

The ruleii

Formal: WHETHER for yes/no.

IF expresses a condition. WHETHER introduces alternatives. Both are used conversationally.

Memory aidiii

Remember it like this

Formal = whether.

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