Zero, First, and Second Conditionals

Conditional Sentences: Zero, First, and Second

Conditional sentences express a condition and its result. They consist of an if-clause (condition) and a main clause (result). The type of conditional depends on how real or likely the situation is.

Zero Conditional

Form: If + present simple, present simple

Use: General truths, scientific facts, things that are always true:

• "If you heat water to 100 degrees, it boils."
• "If you mix red and blue, you get purple."
• "Plants die if they do not get enough water."

First Conditional

Form: If + present simple, will + base form

Use: Real, possible situations in the present or future:

• "If it rains tomorrow, we will stay at home."
• "If you study hard, you will pass the exam."
• "I will call you if I need help."

Variations: The main clause can use other modals (may, might, can, should) or imperatives: "If you see her, tell her to call me." / "If it rains, we might cancel the trip."

Second Conditional

Form: If + past simple, would + base form

Use: Unreal, hypothetical, or unlikely situations in the present or future:

• "If I had more time, I would learn Japanese." (But I do not have more time.)
• "If she were the president, she would change the law." (But she is not the president.)
• "What would you do if you won the lottery?"