IF CLAUSES

IF CLAUSES

1. WHAT IS?

   • The if clauses in English are the conditional clauses used in different situations and are always accompanied by the term If
     • They are used to talk about future plans, probable or unlikely situations to happen, or even choices that have been made in the past.

2. CLASSIFICATION

   • If clauses are made up of two sentences: the if clause (conditional sentence) and the main clause (main sentence). That is, a subordinate and a main clause. They are classified in four ways:
     • ZERO CONDITIONAL
       • It indicates true facts that occur frequently, and it is also used to give orders. Its formation is:
         • if + simple present + simple present
           • Examples: If I study a lot, I get tired. If you need help, talk to the teacher.
     • FIRST CONDITIONAL
       • Indicates possibilities or probable future actions. Its structure is:
         • If + simple present + simple future + infinitive
           • Examples: If you buy one of these books now, I can get a good price for you. If I go to London, I can buy an English guidebook.
     • SECOND CONTIDIONAL
       • Indicates situations that are unlikely or that may even be unreal in the future. Its structure is:
         • If + simple past + would, could, might, should + infinitive
           • Examples: If I had lots of money, I could buy a big house. (If I had a lot of money, I could buy a big house. If I lived in Brazil, I would be happy. (
     • THIRD CONDITIONAL
       • It indicates something that has not occurred in the past and, therefore, often expresses regret. Its formation is:
         • if + past perfect + would have, could have, might have + past participle
           • Examples: If we had saved some money, we would have bought a new car. If she had come on saturday, I would have seen her.