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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You can pick me up from here, if you want. | |
If you wash the mushrooms, I can cut them. | |
We can buy some breast, if you like. | |
If it's in zone-9 with no tube, maybe you can find something... | |
I see... How much is it going to be, if she stays? | |
You can have a rest, if you want to... | |
If you don't have a cigarette, why the f*ck are you asking to smoke? | |
Now? We can if you want. | |
Yeah, it's good, maybe you should take it if you really Iike it. | |
It would be the first time, if it happens. | |
There is some butter at home, if you want. | |
Girls, if you've finished, can we clean the table? | |
Why don't you get some mussels, too, if they're really good? | |
What about if I put my head out the window and smoke? | |
It's up to you, if you want, we can just go and see it. | |
Hey, if we are all drinking wine, why don't we get a bottle then? | |
When he realises, he won't stay this calm. | |
Excuse me madam, if you are ready, can I take your order? | |
Hmm, okay, what about if you are wrong? | |
If we eat the rice with forks, it could be enough. |