Conditional Clauses Questions Medium
The difference between 'if' and 'once' in conditional clauses lies in the nature of the condition and the resulting action.
'If' is used to introduce a condition that is uncertain or hypothetical. It implies that the condition may or may not happen, and the resulting action will depend on whether the condition is fulfilled or not. For example, "If it rains, I will stay at home." This means that the speaker will stay at home only if it actually rains.
'Once', on the other hand, introduces a condition that is certain or expected to happen in the future. It implies that the condition will definitely occur, and the resulting action is seen as inevitable. For example, "Once I finish my work, I will go for a walk." This means that the speaker will definitely go for a walk after completing their work.
In summary, 'if' is used for uncertain or hypothetical conditions, while 'once' is used for certain or expected conditions.