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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What about if I put my head out the window and smoke? | |
Shall we go to the checkout, if you've finished getting everything? | |
If you are not in the mood, we can just go back. | |
It would be the first time, if it happens. | |
If you don't mind preparing something while I'm getting ready, that would be great. | |
I guess I did, I'm just reading it, if you let me.. . | |
What ever can go wrong, will go wrong. | |
If it's not a secret, can you tell me what you are talking about, then? | |
Okay love, I'll give you a call if I can finish early. | |
If he is okay with dogs. | |
If you want, we can walk to the station from here. | |
I see.. . How much is it going to be, if she stays? | |
What if we can't find any tickets to come back? | |
Excuse me madam, if you are ready, can I take your order? | |
Why don't you get some mussels, too, if they're really good? | |
Hey, if we are all drinking wine, why don't we get a bottle then? | |
What about if we don't smoke? | |
But, maybe you can leave Pogo with me sometimes. | |
What about when you are not home, then? | |
Won't you feel guilty if something happens to them? |