ZERO AND FIRST

ZERO AND FIRST

conditional

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ZERO CONDITIONAL

if+subject+present simple, subject+ present simple

We use the zero conditional to talk about things that usually happen or are always true when something else happens.

• If you heat water to 100°C, it boils.

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ZERO CONDITIONAL

*If the "if" part comes after the main sentence, you don’t need a comma.

• You get wet if you stand in the rain.

*Sometimes, "if" can be replaced by "when" if we are sure that the action will happen.

• The water boils when it reaches 100 degrees Celsius.

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FIRST CONDITIONAL

if+subject+present simple, subject+will/won't+base form

To describe likely situations in the future and their consequences, we usually use the first conditional.

• If it rains, I will stay at home.

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FIRST CONDITIONAL

• *In the if-clause, we normally use the present simple, but sometimes we can also find the present perfect.

• If you’ve finished your homework, we can watch a movie.

• *In the main clause, instead of just “will”, we can also use other future forms, modal verbs (like might, can, must) or even the imperative.

• If it rains tomorrow, we might cancel the picnic.

• Both the if-clause and the main clause can also include progressive forms (for example: will be doing, is doing).
• The if-clause can sometimes be introduced by "unless" followed by an affirmative verb (which means "if not").

• Also, "if" can be made stronger or more formal by adding "even" before it (→ even if).

• Even if it rains, we’ll go hiking.

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Also, "if" can be made stronger or more formal by adding "even" before it (→ even if).

unless, as/so long as, provided (that), in case

• unless (= except if / replaces "if not")

You won’t get a good mark unless you work harder.(= You must work harder, or you won’t get a good mark.)

• as long as / so long as / provided (that) (= if something happens or is true)

You will be free at 4 o’clock if you arrive on time.You will be free at 4 o’clock as long as you arrive on time.(= You must arrive on time to be free at 4.)

• in case (= because something might happen)

Don’t forget your umbrella in case it rains.(= Maybe it will rain, so take your umbrella.)