The first conditional, also known as type I if-clause, is used to talk about future actions that can only occur providing that a certain condition (expressed in the if-clause) is fulfilled.
It is also known as the real conditional because it refers to realistic possibilities. Conjunctions unless, as long as and provided that can be used to replace if in conditional clauses.
Example
Explanation
If it rains tomorrow, we will not go to the park.
There is a real chance of raining tomorrow, but it's not guaranteed.
Construction
Rule 1: To form the first conditional, we use a present tense for the if-clause, and a future tense (will/won't + imperative) or the imperative for the main clause. If and will never appear in the same clause.
Example
Explanation
If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to contact me later.
The if-clause contains a present tense, while the main clause contains the imperative.
I won't pass this exam if I don't study hard tonight.
The if-clause contains a present tense, while the main clause contains the future tense. Both clauses are negative.
Note: We can reverse the order of the clauses with no change in meaning. But, if the if-clause comes first, it should be separated by a comma. If the main clause is first, we don't need a comma.
Usage
Rule 2: We can use the first conditional to talk about future consequences.
Example
Explanation
If I take this job, I will not have time for my hobbies.
First clause is used to describe the consequences of accepting a particular job offer.
Rule 3: We can use the first conditional for warnings and threats.
Example
Explanation
If you don't accept this offer, you will miss an opportunity to grow as a specialist.
First conditional is used to warn about the consequences of rejecting a particular job offer.
Rule 4: We can use the first conditional for negotiations.
Example
Explanation
I will accept the job if you ensure regular workshops and provide more vacation days.
First conditional is used to negotiate the conditions for on which a job offer will be accepted.
Rule 5: We can use the first conditional to talk about superstitions.
Example
Explanation
If you find a penny and pick it up, all day long you'll have good luck.
An English superstition.
Comparison with Other Conditionals
First Conditional vs. Zero Conditional
Rule 6: The first conditional describes a particular situation, whereas the zero conditional describes what happens in general.
English
English
If I have time, I'll finish that letter.
If it rains, the grass gets wet.
First Conditional vs. Second Conditional
Rule 7: The first conditional describes things that a speaker thinks are likely to happen in the future, whereas the second conditional talks about things that a speaker thinks won't really happen. This difference is more subjective and depends on the speaker's point of view.
English
English
If you don't hurry, you will miss the train.
Even if you hurried up, I don't think we would make it to that train.
First Conditional vs. Third Conditional
Rule 8: Third conditional talks about hypothetical situations in the past (i.e., impossible), unlike the first and second, which discuss events in the real or unreal future.
English
English
If he is late again, I will be mad.
If he called you, you could go.
Quiz
1/4
Choose the correct option to form the first conditional. If you ___ home, I will come over later.
0
correct answers.