The Zero Conditional

The Zero Conditional

1. Definition

   • We use the zero conditional when we want to talk about facts or things that are generally true. And do not change
   • Zero conditionals don’t talk about the past, present or future. They talk about things which are always true.
   • It refers to a general situation that always happens if a condition is met
   • The zero Conditionals are also known as Type 0 conditionals

2. Structure

   • If + subject + present simple, subject + present simple
     • Example: If water reaches 100ºC, it boils.
     • – If + I mix hydrogen with water, + it turns into water.

3. Uses

   • We use the Zero Conditional to talk about:
     • Facts
       • If I mix hydrogen with oxygen, it turns into water.
     • General truths
       • If you fly with budget airlines, the drinks are expensive.
     • Routines
     • Habits
       • Unless I’m late for work, I always catch the train.
     • Preferences
       • When I stir fry vegetables, I prefer olive oil.
     • Rules and laws
       • If you’re in class, don’t use your phone.
     • Causes and effects
       • If you eat too much junk food, you can get fat.
     • Proverbs
       • When it rains, it pours!
     • Instructions
       • If Bill comes here again, tell him I’m not scared of him!
     • Suggestions and advice
       • If you go to the beach, put on lots of sunscreen.
     • Requests.
       • If you go past the groceries store, get a few things for me please.
     • Superstitions
       • It’s bad luck if the groom sees the bride before the wedding.

4. When / Unless:

   • We can use when or unless to replace if in the if clause.
     • Example 1: When + I stir fry vegetables, I + prefer olive oil.
     • Example 2: Unless + I’m late for work, + I always catch the train.

5. Modal Verbs:

   • Modal verbs are common in zero conditionals.
   • They can be used in either the if the clause or the result clause.
   • Example: If + you eat too much junk food, + you can get fat.

6. Present Continuous / Present Progressive Tense:

   • Instead of using the present simple tense, we can use the present continuous / present progressive tense in either of the clauses.
     • Example 1: If you go past the groceries store, get a few things for me please.
       • Example 1: If you‘re going out, get a few things for me please. (Present continuous + present simple)
     • Example 2: If you eat too much junk food, you can get fat.
       • Example 2: If you’re overweight, you‘re probably eating too much junk food. (Present simple + present continuous)

7. Imperatives:

   • Imperatives are common in the result clause when we:
     • Describe rules and laws:
     • Give instructions:
     • Make requests: