Whether and If
In Grammar 7-1, we learned how to use Noun Clauses with question words.
When a yes or no question is changed to a Noun Clause, we need to use the words, whether or if. Whether or if are usually interchangeable.
- Can she help me?
- I am thinking about whether the doctor can help me.
- Am I anemic?
- I wonder whether I am anemic.
- Should I go home?
- I do not know if I should go home.
When using if or whether, it is common to also say, "or not". Notice the following acceptable patterns:
- I am thinking about whether or not my doctor can help me.
- I am thinking about whether my doctor can help me or not.
- I am thinking about if my doctor can help me or not.
Unlock full access by logging in. Registered users can explore the entire lesson and more.