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Definition
Definition
A conditional sentence is a sentence that expresses a situation and its possible result. It usually consists of two clauses:
The if-clause (also called condition clause), which states the condition.
The main clause (also called result clause), which expresses the outcome if the condition is fulfilled.
General structure
General structure
The basic pattern is: If + condition (if-clause), result (main clause)
If it rains, we’ll stay at home.
👉 The order can be reversed without changing meaning:
We’ll stay at home if it rains.
Warning!
Warning!
When the sentence begins with if, we usually use a comma between clauses.
If we arrive on time, we will go to the cinema
When if is in the middle, a comma is not needed:
We will go to the cinema if we arrive on time.
Types of conditional sentences
Types of conditional sentences
Zero Conditional
Zero Conditional
The Zero Conditional expresses things that are always true, predictable, or inevitable under certain conditions.
Form: If + present simple, present simple
Form: If + present simple, present simple
If you heat water to 100°C, it boils.
If I don’t sleep well, I feel tired the next day.
Usages:
Usages:
General truths / scientific facts: Describes things that are always true under certain conditions.
If you mix red and blue, you get purple.
Habits and routines: Expresses what usually happens when a condition is met.
If I drink coffee late at night, I can’t sleep.
Rules and instructions: Used to give directions, rules, or instructions that always apply.
If the traffic light is red, you stop.
Cause and effect: Shows a direct cause-effect relationship between condition and result.
If you drop an object, it falls to the ground.
⚠️ Important ⚠️
⚠️ Important ⚠️
Zero conditionals can often be replaced with when without changing the meaning:
If you press this button, the machine starts.
When you press this button, the machine starts.
First or Real Conditional
First or Real Conditional
The First Conditional is used for real and possible future situations. It describes what will happen if a certain condition is met.
Form: If + present simple, will + infinitive
Form: If + present simple, will + infinitive
If it rains tomorrow, we’ll stay at home.
If you study hard, you’ll pass the exam.
Usages:
Usages:
Real future possibilities: Expresses a condition that may realistically happen.
If you call me later, I’ll give you the details.
Promises and warnings: Often used when making promises or giving warnings.
If you touch that wire, you’ll get an electric shock..
Negotiations and offers: Used to persuade or bargain.
If you help me with this, I’ll buy you lunch.
Cause-effect relationship in the future: Shows how one future action depends on another.
If prices rise, people will buy less.
⚠️ Important ⚠️
⚠️ Important ⚠️
The main clause usually uses will + infinitive, but can also use:
Modal verbs (can, may, might, should)
If you need help, I can help you.
Imperative
Do it, you'll regret it!
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