There are 5 basic types of conditional sentences: type 1 conditional sentences, type 2 conditional sentences and type 3 conditional sentences, but in this lesson, we will learn some more types of conditional sentences. and will start with a conditional of type 0.
⏩ Sign Up to Get Bonus
The Zero Conditional
The zero conditional is used for when the time being referred to is now or always and the situation is real and possible and also used to refer to general truths. In zero conditional sentences, the word ” if ” can usually be replaced by the word ” when ” without changing the meaning.
The structure of Type Zero conditional sentences:
Form :
| If clause | Main clause |
| If + Simple present | Simple present |
Example:
- If you heat ice, it melts.
- If it rains, the grass gets wet.
The Zero Conditional (Present Real Conditional)
The First Conditional Sentences
The type 1 conditional is used to refer to the present or future where the situation is real. The type 1 conditional refers to a possible condition and its probable result.
The structure of Type 1 conditional sentences:
Form :
| If clause | Main clause |
| If + Simple present | Simple future |
Example:
- If you don't hurry, you will miss the train.
- If it rains today, you will get wet.
The First Conditional (Present or Future Real Conditional)
The Second Conditional Sentences
The type 2 conditional is used to refer to a time that is now or any time , and a situation that is unreal . These sentences are not based on fact . The type 2 conditional is used to refer to a hypothetical condition and its probable result.
The structure of Type 2 conditional sentences:
Form :
| If clause | Main clause |
| If + Simple past | Present conditional or present continuous conditional |
Example:
- If you went to bed earlier, you would not be so tired.
- If it rained, you would get wet.
The Second Conditional (Present Unreal Conditional)
The Third Conditional Sentences
The type 3 conditional is used to refer to a time that is in the past, and a situation that is contrary to reality. The facts they are based on are the opposite of what is expressed. The type 3 conditional is used to refer to an unreal past condition and its probable past result.
The structure of Type 3 conditional sentences:
Form :
| If clause | Main clause |
| If + Past perfect | Perfect conditional or perfect continuous conditional |
Example:
- If you had studied harder you would have passed the exam.
- If I had accepted that promotion I would have been working in Milan.
The Third Conditional (Past Unreal Conditional)
The Mixed Conditional
The mixed type conditional is used to refer to a time that is in the past, and a situation that is ongoing into the present. The facts they are based on are the opposite of what is expressed. The mixed type conditional is used to refer to an unreal past condition and its probable result in the present.
The structure of Type Mixed conditional sentences:
Form :
| If clause | Main clause |
| If + Past perfect or simple past | Present conditional or perfect conditional |
Example:
- If I had worked harder at school, I would have a better job now.
- If we had looked at the map, we wouldn't be lost.
The Mixed Conditional (Present Result of a Past Condition)
Conclusion
We hope that my explanation of conditional sentences in English was clear and understandable. Good luck with your studies and soon!
In addition, you can refer to many other basic English test preparation materials, such as English story, words, grammar, sentences, … are constantly update on Englishtivi.com.
Subscribe to the English tivi channel on Youtube to improve your English learning skills!
