In English we use the first conditional to talk about possibilities in the present or in the future. The 'if clause' talks about things that are possible, but not certain, and the 'main clause' says what we think the result will be in this situation.
If the 'if clause' comes first, a comma is usually used. If the 'if clause' comes second, there is no need for a comma.
Example Sentences :
Future time clauses :
In English we can use sentences with 'when', 'as soon as', 'before', 'after' and 'until' to talk about the future using the same form as a first conditional. After these words we use the present simple, and in the main clause we use will + infinitive.
Example Sentences :
In English we use 'when' to say we are certain something will happen.
In English we use 'as soon as' to say something will happen immediately after something else.
In English we use 'until' to say something stops happening at this time.
Similarly to first conditionals, the future time clause can come first or second in the sentence.
eg. I'll call you when I get to the office. = When I get to the office, I'll call you.
Notes for use of first conditional :
In English we can use modal verbs in the main clause of conditionals.
Examples Sentences :
In English we can also use imperatives in the main clause of conditionals.
Example Sentences :
In English we can use 'in case' to say we are prepared for something that might happen.
'In case' and 'if' have different meanings.
In this sentence the person is definitely going to put on some sunscreen in preparation for a time in the future when it might be sunny.
In this sentence the person might put on some sunscreen, but only if it is sunny in the future.
In English we can use 'might' instead of 'will' to mean 'will perhaps' in first conditionals.
It is possible to use a variety of verb forms in conditional sentences, not just those in the four basic conditionals.
In English we can use the future with going to instead of the present to show future intention.
First conditional example sentences | |
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It would be the first time, if it happens. | |
If it's not a secret, can you tell me what you are talking about, then? | |
If you don't mind preparing something while I'm getting ready, that would be great. | |
If you have decided, shall we order? | |
Hmm, okay, what about if you are wrong? | |
What ever can go wrong, will go wrong. | |
Alright, if you want to learn something, watch carefully then... | |
You can have a rest, if you want to... | |
Yes, that's the one, if it's still available, can we see it? | |
Why don't you get some mussels, too, if they're really good? | |
Excuse me madam, if you are ready, can I take your order? | |
When he realises, he won't stay this calm. | |
Shall we go to the checkout, if you've finished getting everything? | |
If you wash the mushrooms, I can cut them. | |
What I mean is, if we get a house, she can rent one of the rooms. | |
Doesn't matter, we can share if you want. | |
Okay love, I'll give you a call if I can finish early. | |
Girls, if you've finished, can we clean the table? | |
I can cook for you one day, if you like. | |
Yes, if you want to blow the kitchen up! |