Zero & First Conditional

Zero & First Conditional

0 Conditional Form

In zero conditional sentences, the tense in both parts of the sentence is the simple present.

if + present simple, ... + present simple

If clause (condition) + Main clause (result)

If this happen that thing happen

As in all conditional sentences, the order of the clauses is not fixed. You may have to rearrange the pronouns and adjust punctuation when you change the order of the clauses, but the meaning is identical.

In zero conditional sentences, you can replace "if" with "when", because both express general truths. The meaning will be unchanged.

The zero conditional is used to make statements about the real world, and often refers to general truths, such as scientific facts. In these sentences, the time is now or always and the situation is real and possible.

Example:

If you freeze water, it becomes a solid.

The zero conditional is also often used to give instructions, using the imperative in the main clause.

Example:

Ask Pete if you're not sure what to do

1st Conditional Form

The first conditional has the present simple after 'if', then the future simple in the other clause:

if + present simple, ... will + infinitive

It's used to talk about things which might happen in the future. Of course, we can't know what will happen in the future, but this describes possible things, which could easily come true.

Example:

If it rains, I won't go to the park.

0 conditional VS 1st Conditional

The first conditional describes a particular situation, whereas the zero conditional describes what happens in general.

Examples:

(Zero conditional): if you sit in the sun, you get burned (here I'm talking about every time a person sits in the sun - the burning is a natural consequence of the sitting)

But (first conditional): if you sit in the sun, you'll get burned (here I'm talking about what will happen today, another day might be different)

Multiple Choice

Identify the conditional:

If you want to come, call me before 5:00.

• Zero Conditional

• 1st Conditional

Multiple Choice

Identify the conditional:

Plants die if they don't get enough water.

• Zero Conditional

• 1st Conditional

Multiple Choice

Identify the conditional:

If I have enough money, I'll buy some new shoes.

• Zero Conditional

• 1st Conditional

Multiple Choice

Identify the conditional:

When it rains, the grass gets wet.

• Zero Conditional

• 1st Conditional

Multiple Choice

Identify the conditional:

She'll be late if the train is delayed.

• Zero Conditional

• 1st Conditional