是否 (shìfǒu)
“是否” is used to express “whether” or “if” in a yes/no context. It can be used both in statements and questions.
It is commonly used when discussing or inquiring about the possibility of something happening or the truth of a statement.
It functions similarly to “whether” in English and is often used in situations where you are questioning or considering two possibilities.
e.g.
他在考虑是否参加这个活动。(Tā zài kǎolǜ shìfǒu cānjiā zhège huódòng.) He is considering whether to participate in this event.
你是否同意这个计划？(Nǐ shìfǒu tóngyì zhège jìhuà?) Do you agree with this plan?
我们还不确定他是否会来。(Wǒmen hái bù quèdìng tā shìfǒu huì lái.) We are still unsure whether he will come.
如果 (rúguǒ)
“如果” means “if” and is used to introduce a conditional clause. It sets up a condition that, if met, will lead to a certain result or consequence.
It is commonly used in conditional sentences to indicate cause-and-effect relationships.
“如果” is usually placed at the beginning of a conditional clause, followed by the condition, and then the result or consequence. (More practices and explanations about the Hypothetical Compound Sentences)
如果……就……
e.g.
如果明天下雨，我们就取消比赛。(Rúguǒ míngtiān xiàyǔ, wǒmen jiù qǔxiāo bǐsài.) If it rains tomorrow, we will cancel the game.
如果我有时间，我会去看你。(Rúguǒ wǒ yǒu shíjiān, wǒ huì qù kàn nǐ.) If I have time, I will visit you.
如果你努力学习，你就会成功。(Rúguǒ nǐ nǔlì xuéxí, nǐ jiù huì chénggōng.) If you study hard, you will succeed.
Comparative Examples
你是否已经完成了作业？如果你完成了作业，我们可以出去玩。
(Nǐ shìfǒu yǐjīng wánchéngle zuòyè? Rúguǒ nǐ wánchéngle zuòyè, wǒmen kěyǐ chūqù wán.) Have you finished your homework? If you finish your homework, we can go out to play.
The first sentence is a yes/no question asking for confirmation of whether the homework is done. “如果” introduces the condition (finishing the homework) that will allow a specific outcome (going out to play).
Exercise
