ἐάν
eán
G1437 subordinating conjunction
SILEX Entry
Definition
A particle introducing a conditional element, typically translated as 'if' when joined with subjunctive verbs; signals an event or circumstance regarded as indefinite, possible, or contingent, rather than definite or actual. Functions in clauses where the outcome depends on whether a certain condition is met.
Semantic Range
if (in an indefinite or potential sense), in case, whenever (in temporal clauses), whoever (in indefinite relative clauses), provided that, in the event that
Root / Etymology
Compound particle formed from εἰ ('if') and ἄν (a modal particle used to mark potentiality or contingency).
Historical & Contextual Notes
ἐάν appears frequently in Koine Greek to introduce conditional (protasis) clauses, especially in the New Testament and non-literary papyri. Its use marks a situation as hypothetical, undetermined, or possible, in contrast to ἐι with the indicative, which generally marks definite, factual conditions. ἐάν is almost always followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood, indicating potentiality. The LXX occasionally uses it in similar fashion, but its range is expanded in Hellenistic texts. Standard English translations often render ἐάν simply as 'if,' but this can underrepresent the notion of contingency or indefiniteness present in the Greek. In combinations (e.g., ὅς ἐάν, ὅταν, ὃς δ’ ἄν), it forms indefinite relatives and temporal clauses ('whoever,' 'whenever'), contributing further to the meaning of generality and potentiality. Unlike εἰ, which may introduce definite/factual conditions, ἐάν is the standard Koine marker for conditions open or unrealized at the time of speaking. The use of ἐάν is a characteristic feature distinguishing Koine from some earlier Greek prose registers.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from εἰ and ἄν; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty:--before, but, except, (and) if, (if) so, (what-, whither-)soever, though, when (-soever), whether (or), to whom, (who-)so(-ever). See μή.
Root Family
ἐάν (ean) — if, in case, conditionally, potentially
Word Forms
2 distinct forms
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1437-01 |
ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if | 335 |
G1437-02 |
ἐάνπερ | eanper | CONJ.S |
if | if indeed | if indeed | 2 |
Occurrences in Scripture
337 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1437-01 |
Matthew 4:9 | ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 5:13 | ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 5:19 | ἐὰν | ean | T |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 5:20 | ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 5:23 | ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 5:32 | ἐὰν | ean | T |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 5:46 | ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 5:47 | ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 6:14 | ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if |
G1437-01 |
Matthew 6:15 | ἐὰν | ean | CONJ.S |
if | if | if |