5 Lesson Type 0 - 1 Conditionals

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CONDITIONAL - TYPE 0

ZERO CONDITIONAL: CERTAINTY

We used the so-called zero conditional when the result of the condition is always true, like a scientific fact.

Form:

A zero conditional sentence consists of two clauses, an "if" clause (condition) and a main clause (result). The simple present tense is the tense use in both clauses:

Zero conditional

* The order of the clause is not fixed - the "if" clause can be first or second.

* Ice melts if you heat it. (No comma)

Function:

1. In these sentences, the time is now or always and the situation is real and possible. They are used to make statements about the real world, and often refer to general truths, such as scientific facts.

Examples:

· If you freeze water, it becomes a solid.

· Plants die if they don't get enough water.

· If my husband has a cold, I usually catch it.

· If public transport is efficient, people stop using their cars.

· If you mix red and blue, you get purple.

2. This structure is often used to give instructions, using the imperative in the main clause:

* If Bill phones, tell him to meet me at the cinema

* Ask Pete if you are not sure what to do.

 

NOTE: We can also use when instead off if, for example:

When I get up late I miss my bus.

CONDITIONAL - TYPE 1

FIRST CONDITIONAL: REAL POSSIBILITIES

We used the first conditional to express conditions in the present, with results in the present or future.

Form:

In a Type 1 conditional sentence, the tense in the 'if' clause (condition) is the simple present, and the tense in the main clause (result) is the simple future:

First conditional

* The order of the clause is not fixed - the "if clause" can be first or second.

* We will miss the train if you don't worry. (No comma)

Function:

In these sentences, the time is the present or future and the situation is real. They refer to a possible condition and its probable result. They are based on facts, and they are used to make statements about the real world, and about particular situations. We often use such sentences to give warnings:

Examples:

    • If you don't leave, I'll call the police.
    • If you don't drop the gun, I'll shoot!
    • If you drop that glass, it will break.
    • Nobody will notice if you make a mistake.
    • If I have time,I'll finish that letter.
    • What will you do if you miss the plane?

 

NOTE: We can use modals to express the degree of certainty of the result, for example:

If you drop that glass, it might break.

I may finish that letter if I have time.

QUESTION: Match the following If clauses with their right main clauses:

1. If Tony rings,

2. If the trains are delayed,

3. If I read too much,

4. If you go to Australia,