Lest vs. Unless
Difference Between Lest and Unless
Lestconjunction
For fear that
tiptoed lest the guard should hear her.anxious lest he become ill.Unlessconjunction
Except on the condition that; except under the circumstances that
"Exceptional talent does not always win its reward unless favored by exceptional circumstances" (Mary Elizabeth Braddon).Lestconjunction
So that someone or something not; in case someone or something might
"Lest anyone forget, adolescence is purgatory" (Jon Pareles).Unlesspreposition
Except for; except.
Lestconjunction
For fear that; that not; in order that not; in case.
He won't go outside, lest he be eaten by those ravenous eagles.Unlessconjunction
Except on a specified condition; if not.
I’m leaving unless I get a pay rise (AmE: raise).Lestconjunction
That (without the negative particle); – after certain expressions denoting fear or apprehension.
Unlessconjunction
If not; used with counterfactual conditionals.
Lestadverb
for fear that;
she tiptoed lest her mother should hear herUnlessconjunction
Except if; used with hypothetical conditionals.
Lestadverb
that (after verbs explicitly expressing fear etc.);
he worried lest he should be late
