Zero and 1st Conditionals

In English, conditionals help us describe something that might have or might happen. In order to use the zero and 1^st conditionals we need to know what verb tenses to use.^[1]https://www.perfect-english-grammar.com/conditionals.html

Zero Conditional

The zero conditional is used to talk about general truths and habits.^[2]https://www.test-english.com/explanation/b2/first-second-third-conditionals/

If + present simple verb + present simple verb

For example:

• If it rains, I use an umbrella.
• If I drink a beer, I don’t drive a vehicle.
• If we study, we do well in school.

Word Order

You can also put the main clause at the beginning of the sentence. In this case, you don’t use a comma.

For example:

• I use an umbrella if it rains.
• I don’t drive a vehicle if I drink a beer.
• We do well in school if we study.

“When”

You can also use the word “when” in the place of “if” without changing the meaning of the sentence.

For example:

• When it rains, I use an umbrella.
• When I drink a beer, I don’t drive a vehicle.
• When we study, we do well in school.

1^st Conditional

The first conditional is used to talk about possible things in the future.

If + present simple verb + will + infinitive

For example:

• If we practice, we will get better.
• If it doesn’t rain, I will go to the park.
• If they don’t call back, I will call them.

“Unless”

You can also use the word “unless” to replace the negative form.

For example:

• If it doesn’t rain, I will go to the park. → I will go to the park unless it rains.

Difference between the zero and 1^st conditionals

As you can see, the zero and first conditionals are quite similar.

The biggest difference is that the zero conditional is used for general truths while the 1^st conditional is used for specific situations.

Practice Exercises

Determine is the following sentences are either the zero or 1^st conditional.