conditionals

conditionals

1. Zero

   • We use the zero conditional to talk about permanent truths, such as scientific facts, and general habits.
   • If + present simple, present simple
     • - If I’m tired, I go to bed early. - If it doesn’t rain for a long time, the earth gets very dry.

2. First

   • We use the first conditional to talk about a realistic situation in the present or future.
   • If + present simple , will/can/must + verb or imperative form
     • - If they’re hungry, I’ll make some sandwiches. - If you’re not back by 5pm, give me a ring.

3. Second

   • We use the second conditional to talk about improbable or impossible situations in the present or future.
   • If + past simple, would/could + verb
     • - If I were rich, I’d spend all my time travelling. - If she saw a snake, she’d be terrified.

4. Third

   • We use the third conditional to talk about impossible situations, as in the second conditional, in the past.
   • If+ past perfect, would/could have + past participle
     • - If I hadn’t learnt English, I wouldn’t have got this job. - If we had left earlier, we would have arrived on time.