Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[sleeper]

[color=darkred]Hi, there!

Today I'd like to ask you about the difference between 'unless' and 'if ... not.'

See the following sentences.
#1 I'll be surprised if she doesn't win a prize.
#2 I'll be surprised unless she wins a prize.

Sentense #1 is correct, and Sentence #2 is wrong.
This is what I learned in school.

But why is Sentence #2 not possible?
What is the difference between 'unless' and 'if ... not?'

Would you explain to me, please?

Thank you.

[Educationslave]

because if you are saying "i'll be surprised" it means you are not expecting whatever happens. to say that you would be surprised by any result excepting one is very non-sensical

hope is helps
ES