Difference between 'IF' and 'WHETHER'

[Clark]

Can someone explain the difference between the use of IF and WHETHER?

Thanks

Clark

[Torsten]

Hi Clark,

Many thanks for your interesting question.

There are cases in which «whether» and «if» have the same meaning.

For example:

«I don't know whether you've taken all of our English tests». or: «I don't know if you've taken all our English tests».

Now, you can use whether when you want to list alternatives.

For example: «I don't know whether I'll go to the US to continue my studies or stay in Europe».

TOEIC listening, question-response: Do you know when Ms. Peabody will return?

[Clark]

brilliant stuff, thanks Torsten.

[Will141414]

Thanks for that info but, I still need to understand he "difference" between the two? How do i explain them to a NON native English speaker?

[Yankee]

Hi Will141414

There is a nice write-up here about if vs whether.
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_________________
"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln

[Will141414]

Thats perfect!!! exactly what i needed Amy!!

Thanks a million!!

[Tinkinswood]

Headline on the front page of today's (28/9/11) Daily Telegraph:
"Victims of crime to decide if police investigate"
The headline doesn't state what the victims are to decide, if the police decide to investigate.
If the headline had used 'whether' then the meaning would have been clear.