I will call the police ______ you pay me for what you have taken! Which word completes the sentence?

I will call the police ______ you pay me for what you have taken! Which word completes the sentence?

• A. Unless
• B. If
• C. Until
• D. When

Answer: (A)

The sentence tests using unless to express a negative condition that will trigger a consequence. Unless introduces the idea “if you do not…” The statement means: I will call the police if you do not pay me for what you have taken. Paying would prevent that consequence, which is exactly how unless works. Why this word fits best: it cleanly sets up a threat that only happens when the payment isn’t made. The other options don’t express that negative condition. If you pay me would imply the police are called because you paid, which isn’t the intended consequence. Until you pay me would suggest the action continues up to the time you pay, not a conditional outcome. When you pay me would place the timing after payment, not a conditional outcome preventing the call.

The sentence tests using unless to express a negative condition that will trigger a consequence. Unless introduces the idea “if you do not…” The statement means: I will call the police if you do not pay me for what you have taken. Paying would prevent that consequence, which is exactly how unless works.

Why this word fits best: it cleanly sets up a threat that only happens when the payment isn’t made. The other options don’t express that negative condition. If you pay me would imply the police are called because you paid, which isn’t the intended consequence. Until you pay me would suggest the action continues up to the time you pay, not a conditional outcome. When you pay me would place the timing after payment, not a conditional outcome preventing the call.