IF CONDITIONALS
Learn how to use if to talk about a condition and what happens as a result.
Zero Conditional
Facts & Universal Truths
We use the Zero Conditional for things that are always or generally true, including facts and scientific truths.
If you heat water to 100°C, it boils.
If it rains, the ground gets wet.
If people exercise regularly, they feel healthier.
First Conditional
Possible Future
We use the First Conditional for something that is possible in the future.
If it rains tomorrow, I will stay home.
If I study hard, I will pass the exam.
If she finishes work early, she will go shopping.
Second Conditional
Imaginary or Unlikely
We use the Second Conditional for a situation that is imaginary or unlikely in the present or future.
If I had more money, I would buy a bigger house.
If I lived near the beach, I would go there every day.
If I were you, I would accept the job.
Third Conditional
Past & Impossible to Change
We use the Third Conditional to imagine a different result for a past situation. The situation is already over, so we cannot change it.
If I had studied harder, I would have passed the exam.
If we had left earlier, we would have caught the bus.
If she had called me, I would have helped her.
Quick Revision
Compare all four conditionals at a glance
| Conditional | When do we use it? | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Zero | Fact or universal truth | If you heat ice, it melts. |
| First | Possible future | If I study, I will pass. |
| Second | Imaginary or unlikely | If I had more time, I would exercise. |
| Third | Past and cannot change | If I had studied, I would have passed. |
Easy Formula
Test Your Understanding
Complete the practice exercise and strengthen your grammar skills.