Un-lĕss', conj.

[Prefix un and less. Cf. O. Eng. lesse than and Fr. à moins que . . . ne.] Except, that is, remove or dismiss the fact or thing stated in the sentence or clause which follows; if not; supposing that not; excluding the case that; as, we can not thrive unless we are industrious and frugal.

Synonyms—Except.—UNLESS, EXCEPT. Except and unless were formerly confounded; as, “I will not let thee go except thou bless me.” In present usage, except has always reference to some general fact, rule, &c., of which the speaker goes on to state an exception; as, none can enter except by permission. Unless has reference to the fact supposed falling short of, or being less than, what is necessary in order that the result specified may follow; as, unless we eat, we shall die; that is, if we do less than eat, or, in other words, do not eat, the certain result is death.