Lesson 0044

Conditional ( ‘If ’ Clauses )

Part 1

They describe the result of something that might happen (in the present or future) or might have happened but didn’t (in the past). They are made using different English verb tenses.

There are four main kinds of conditionals:

 

The Zero Conditional:

• we use the zero conditional to talk about things that are generally true, especially for laws and rules.
• is used to state a general truths or general habits

Grammar Pattern: (if + present simple, … present simple)

Examples:

If you heat water to 100 degrees, it boils

If you add two and two, you get four.

 

The First Conditional:

• we use the first conditional when we talk about future situations we believe are real or possible.

Grammar Pattern: (if + present simple, … will + infinitive)

Examples:

If it rains tomorrow, we’ll stay at home.

If I finish my work early, I’ll visit you.