もし
If (For emphasis)
Structure
(1) Phrase［ば］、Phrase［と］、Phrase［ても］
Explanation
The adverb もし is used to add emphasis to conditional statements that use particles like と, ば, なら, たら, or ても. Its core meaning suggests a low probability or a hypothetical situation, similar to 'supposing' or 'in the event that'.
To use もし, place it at the beginning of the clause that contains one of the conditional forms mentioned above.
- もしあの角を右に曲がると、駅が見えます。If you turn right at that corner, you'll see the station. (Supposing you take that turn)
- もし天気がよければ、公園に行きましょう。If the weather's good, let's go to the park. (If, by chance, the weather is good)
- もし図書館に行くなら、この本を返してくれませんか。If you're heading to the library, could you return this book for me? (If it happens that you are going)
- もし時間があったら、手伝ってください。If you have time, please give me a hand. (If you happen to have any time)
- もし難しくても、あきらめません。Even if it's difficult, I won't give up. (Even on the off-chance it's difficult)
Fun Fact
While usually written in hiragana, もし can also be written with the kanji 若し. This kanji, also used in the word 若い (young), carries the idea of 'immaturity' or 'lacking'. This origin helps explain why もし adds a nuance of 'low probability' or 'supposition' to a sentence.
Examples
もし晴れたら、公園に行く。
If it's sunny, I will go to the park.
もし高いものだったら、買えない。
If it is expensive, I can't buy it.
もし宿題を手伝ってくれたら、助かる。
If you helped me with my homework, I would be grateful.
もし図書館に行くなら、この本を返してね。
If you are going to the library, please return this book (for me).
もし毎日練習したら、ピアノが上手になるでしょう。
If you practice every day, you will probably become good at piano.
もしチケットをなくしたら、コンサートに入れなくなる。
If you lose your ticket, you will not be able to get into the concert.
もし給料をもらったら、プレゼントを買ってあげるよ。
If I get my salary, I'll buy you a present.
もし映画が見たかったら、まず宿題を終わらせてね。
If you want to watch a movie, finish your homework first.
もし彼が謝っても、私は許さない。
Even if he apologizes, I will not forgive him.
もし週末が暇だったら、どこかへ出かけましょう。
If you are free on the weekend, let's go out somewhere.
もし泳げなかったら、海に行かないほうがいいと思う。
If you can't swim, I think it's better not to go to the ocean.
もし電車が遅れたら、タクシーに乗らなくてはならない。
If the train is late, I will have to take a taxi.