If, v. t.

v. t., but commonly called a conj. [O. Eng. & A-S. gif, O. Fries. jef, Icel. ef, O. H. Ger. ibu, oba, obe, ob, Goth. iba, ibai. The A-S. gif has been explained by Horne Tooke, and by others after him, as simply the imperative, second person singular, of the verb gifan, to give. If would in that case be equivalent to grant, allow, admit. Thus, if thou wilt, — that is, give the fact that thou wilt, — thou canst make me whole; if John shall arrive in season, — grant, suppose that he shall arrive, — I will send him with a message. This etymology is plausible in itself, and is favored by the old use of that after if; as, if that John shall arrive, &c. But it is not supported by the form and use of the corresponding words in other Teutonic languages, and it must therefore be looked upon as uncertain at least, if not as improbable. Cf. An. 1. In case that; granting, allowing, or supposing that. Tisiphone, that oft hast heard my prayer, Assist, if Œdipus deserve thy care. Pope. If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. Matt. iv. 3. 2. Whether; — in dependent questions. Uncertain if by augury or chance. Dryden. She doubts if two and two make four. Prior.