CONDITIONALS

Conditional sentences express a condition (if…) and the consequence of the condition.

The consequence can be expressed before or after the condition:

 If you come to Canada, we can visit Vancouver = we can visit Vancouver if you come to Canada.

Note: if the condition comes first, a comma is used. If the consequence comes first, no comma is used.

1º - Zero conditional.

If + present tense, -present tense: if the teacher is late, it sets a bad example to the class.

Zero conditional is used to express:

Things that are always or generally true: people get annoyed if you shout at them

Scientific facts: if water boils, it evaporates

2º - First conditional.

If/Unless + present tense, - future tense/modal verb (may, should, can, etc.)/imperative:

 If you wash the car, it will look much smarter. Future tense

 You can have an ice-cream if you behave well. Modal

 If he phones, tell him I’m in a meeting. Imperative

 I won’t phone unless it’s urgent. Future negative

 You shouldn’t go swimming unless you think it’s safe. Modal

 The first conditional is used to express a future condition the speaker thinks is possible or likely: if I get the job, I’ll buy myself a new car.

3º Second conditional

If/Unless + past tense, - would/could/might + infinitive:

 If she wasn´t so busy, she could come to the party.

 I would go for a walk if it wasn’t so cold.

 The second conditional is used to express a present or future condition which is imaginary, contrary to the facts, impossible or improbable:

 If I was as rich as Bill Gates, I wouldn’t work. Imaginary situation

 I wouldn’t fly in a helicopter unless I was sure it was completely safe. Imaginary situation

 Her English would be better if she came to class more often. Contrary to the facts as she doesn’t come to class often enough.

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