Unit 10
THE ZERO CONDITIONAL
The zero conditional is used for when the time being referred to is now or always and the situation is real and possible. The zero conditional is often used to refer to general truths. The tense in both parts of the sentence is the simple present. In zero conditional sentences, the word "if" can usually be replaced by the word "when" without changing the meaning.
If clause | Main clause |
---|---|
If + simple present | simple present |
If this thing happens | that thing happens. |
If you heat ice | it melts. |
If it rains | the grass gets wet. |
Read more about how to use the zero conditional.
THE FIRST CONDITIONAL
The type 1 conditional is used to refer to the present or future where the situation is real. The type 1 conditional refers to a possible condition and its probable result. In these sentences the if clause is in the simple present, and the main clause is in the simple future.
If clause | Main clause |
---|---|
If + simple present | simple future |
If this thing happens | that thing will happen. |
If you don't hurry | you will miss the train. |
If it rains today | you will get wet. |
Read more about how to use the type 1 conditional.
The second CONDITIONAL
The type 2 conditional is used to refer to a time that is now or any time, and a situation that is unreal. These sentences are not based on fact. The type 2 conditional is used to refer to a hypothetical condition and its probable result. In type 2 conditional sentences, the if clause uses the simple past, and the main clause uses the present conditional.
If clause | Main clause |
---|---|
If + simple past | present conditional or present continuous conditional |
If this thing happened | that thing would happen. (but I'm not sure this thing will happen) OR that thing would be happening. |
If you went to bed earlier | you would not be so tired. |
If it rained | you would get wet. |
If I spoke Italian | I would be working in Italy. |
Read more about how to use the type 2 conditional with the present conditional and how to use the present continuous conditional in type 2 conditional sentence.