Question

Transform the below sentence without changing its meaning by using the conditional word-unless:
If you work hard, only then you can win the prize this year.

• A. Unless you work hard, you can win the prize this year.
• B. Unless you work hard, you cannot win the prize this year.
• C. Unless you win the prize, you can work hard.
• D. Unless you win the prize you cannot work hard.

Answer 1

The correct option is B Unless you work hard, you cannot win the prize this year.

The word-'unless' is used in the place of "If ...not".

The given sentence can also be restated as: If you do not work hard, then you cannot win the prize.

In options A and B, the words, "unless you work hard" mean: "If you do not work hard".

Option A means: If you do not work hard, you can win the prize. This conveys a meaning opposite to the given sentence. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option B means: If you do not work hard, you cannot win the prize. Hence, this option is correct.

Option C means: If you do not win the prize, you can work hard. It is incorrect.

Option D means: If you do not win the prize, you cannot work hard. It is incorrect.

You may note that as per the original statement, winning the prize is dependent on working hard. In both options C & D, this is reversed. Hence, in both these options, the meaning conveyed is different and these options are incorrect.