unconditional

Unconditional is an adjective describing something not dependent on any conditions or stipulations. In common usage it contrasts with conditional, which implies dependence on external factors. The term can apply to attitudes, promises or guarantees that are given without prerequisites or limitations.

In social and psychological contexts, unconditional is used to describe forms of acceptance or support that are not contingent on behavior, achievements or conformity. Examples include unconditional love, where affection is not earned or withdrawn by performance; unconditional positive regard, a cornerstone of some psychotherapeutic approaches; and unconditional support or acceptance in relationships.

In law and finance, unconditional can describe offers, guarantees, or transfers that are not subject to conditions. An unconditional offer of employment requires no additional criteria beyond acceptance; an unconditional guarantee promises satisfaction regardless of subsequent events; unconditional cash transfers provide funds without eligibility conditions.

In statistics and probability, unconditional refers to quantities not conditioned on other events or variables. An unconditional probability P(A) does not condition on A's complement or other information; by contrast, conditional probability P(A|B) depends on B. Unconditional expectation E[X] is the average value without conditioning on other variables.

In philosophy and theology, the term can describe concepts treated as absolute or independent of contingent circumstances, such as the notion of an absolute or unconditioned being in metaphysical discussions.