2.- How to say it. Conditional clauses – First and second type.

In English there are 3 types of conditional sentences. In this type of sentences the subordinate sentence or if-clause expresses a condition upon which the fulfillment of the main clause depends.

Let's start in this unit with the first and second type.

• Before starting the first type, let's consider a type of conditional called zero conditional which is used to talk about general truths. Look at the table below for the tenses used in the subordinate and main clause of the sentence.

  Zero type conditional clauses

  If- clause (subordinate clause)	Main clause
  If / when + present simple.	Present simple.

  • If you boil water, it evaporates.

  In this type of sentences if can be substituted for when.

  • When you boil water, it evaporates.
• First type conditional clauses are used to express something which is probable to happen in the present or future.

  In this case, the tenses used are:

  First type conditional clauses

  If- clause (subordinate clause)	Main clause
  If + present simple.	Will + base form of the verb.
  	Modal verb in the present.
  	Imperative.

  • If neither party compromises, they won't make concessions.

  • If the parties come to an agreement, you must collaborate with them.
  • If the deal falls through, refuse to shore up the company.
• Second type conditional clauses are used to express unreal or imaginary situations in the present or future.

  In this case, the tenses used are:

  Second type conditional clauses

  If- clause (subordinate clause)	Main clause
  If + past simple.	Would/Could + base form of the verb.

  • If the parties compromised, they would make concessions.

  • If the deal fell through, would you shore up the company?

  In the second type of conditional, were instead of was can be used in the subordinate clause:

  • If I were/was rich, I would set up my own business.

  The expression If I were you is used to express an opinion or to give advice:

  • If I were you, I would accept the terms.
• When a conditional clause is negative, it can be introduced by the word unless instead of having if…not:
  • You won't make a profit unless things get better (=if things don't get better).