Conditionals: first and second
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).
First conditional
We use the first conditional when we talk about future situations we believe are real or
possible.
Structure
if/when + present simple+ will + infinitive
When I finish work, I'll call you.
"1. If it is sunny, we will go to the beach.
2. If I have time, I will correct the tests.
3. If it rains tomorrow, I can’t go to the party
4. I can’t go the party if it rains tomorrow
It is also common to use this structure with unless, as long as, as soon as or in
case instead of if.
Second conditional
The second conditional is used to imagine present or future situations that are
impossible or unlikely in reality.
Structure
if + past simple+ would + infinitive.
[Link] we had a garden, we could have a cat.
[Link] I won a lot of money, I'd buy a big house in the country.
3.I wouldn't worry if I were you.
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4. If I were you, I would travel more.
When if is followed by the verb be, it is grammatically correct to say if I were, if he
were, if she were and if it were. However, it is also common to hear these structures
with was, especially in the he/she form.
[Link] I were you, I wouldn't mention it.
[Link] would travel more if he was younger.
British Counsil, 2023.
