Grammar Zero, Conditional sentences have two parts: the conditional clause, which begins with if (or other words such as when, unless, etc., and the main clause. Conditional sentences follow basic patterns. See also: Zero conditional + We use the zero conditional to talk about things that are always or generally true as a result of an action. + To form zero conditional sentences, we use: if + present simple ~+ present simple: When water freezes, it turns to ice If you mix red and blue, you get purple + The conditional clause can come before or after the main clause. When it comes first, we put a ‘comma after it: When I travel by boat, I often get sick Lofien get sick when I travel by boat. First conditional + We use the first conditional to talk about possible actions or events in the future. + To form first conditional sentences, we use: if + present simple — will + infinitive: If it rains, we'll stay at home. + Other structures are also possible in first conditional sentences: + if + present simple -+ modal verb If you promise to behave yourself, you can come. + if + present simple —» be going to If you don’t work hard, you're going to fail. + if + present simple -+ imperative If you need anything, just ask. 82 irst and second conditionals + if + present continuous + willfmodal verb/ imperative If you're leaving, I'l come with you. + if + present perfect -» will/modal verb/ imperative If you've finished your homework, you can {go out. + if + present perfect continuous ~» willimodal verb/imperative If she’s been w worried, + imperative + and/or ~ will/modal verb Eat less and you'll lose weight. + We can also use the following words and phrases in first conditional sentences: + (just) in case: This means ‘because it is possible that’ and it usually comes after the ‘main clause: ‘Ann will bring you a coat in case it gets cold. + provided|providing (that), as long as ‘These phrases mean ‘on condition that’: Provided you rest, you'll feel better soon. + unless: This means ‘if not’: If you don’t leave now, you'll be late. + Unless you leave now, you'll be late ing for ages, she may get Second conditional + We use the second conditional to talk about unlikely events or situations in the future, or improbable/impossible events or situations in the present. + To form second conditional sentences, we use: if + past simple + would + infinitive: If Thad enough money, I would retire. + In the main clause, we can also use could or might instead of would: If I lost my job, I might go abroad for a while + In the if clause, we can use were instead of was: Td quit my job if I were rich.