Conditionals

Zero and First Conditionals

Do you know how to use the zero and first conditionals?

Look at these examples to see how zero and first conditionals are used.

• If you freeze water, it becomes solid.

• If I go to the city centre, I always eat in the same place

• If it rains tomorrow, I'll take the car.

• If scientists succeed, we will have a Covid vaccine soon.

Multiple Choice

When I go on holiday, I always _____ my neighbour to water my plants.

• ask

• asked

• would ask

Multiple Choice

If I _____ the problem to my sister, she'll be happy to help me.

• explain

• explained

• will explain

Explanation

Conditionals describe the result of a certain condition. The if clause tells you the condition (If you study hard) and the main clause tells you the result (you will pass your exams). The order of the clauses does not change the meaning.

Zero conditional

We use the zero conditional to talk about things that are generally true, especially for laws and rules.

First conditional

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

In first conditional sentences, the structure is usually: if/when + present simple >> will + infinitive. 

Multiple Choice

If Caroline and Sue ___ the salad, Phil ___ the house.

• prepare / decorate

• prepares / decorates

• will prepare / decorates

• prepare / will decorate

Multiple Choice

Conditionals describe the result of a certain condition. The if clause tells you...

• the condition

• the result

Multiple Choice

We use the zero conditional to talk about...

• future situations we believe are real or possible.

• things that are generally true, especially for laws and rules.

• present or future situations that are impossible or unlikely in reality.

Multiple Choice

We use the first conditional when we talk about...

• things that are generally true, especially for laws and rules.

• future situations we believe are real or possible.

• present or future situations that are impossible or unlikely in reality.