Zero and 1st Conditionals

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

conditionals

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.

1st 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 1st 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 1st conditional is used for specific situations.

Practice Exercises

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

 11%

Question 1 of 9

1. People get fined, if they don’t pay for their parking space.

Question 1 of 9

Question 2 of 9

2. If it rains, we will have to cancel our plans.

Question 2 of 9

Question 3 of 9

3. If I am running late, I will text you.

Question 3 of 9

Question 4 of 9

4. If you talk in class, you will get in trouble.

Question 4 of 9

Question 5 of 9

5. If you sleep enough, you won’t be tired.

Question 5 of 9

Question 6 of 9

6. When you sleep enough, you have enough energy.

Question 6 of 9

Question 7 of 9

7. When you eat too much food, you get full.

Question 7 of 9

Question 8 of 9

8. My little brother cries if he has a nightmare.

Question 8 of 9

Question 9 of 9

9. I will go to the museum unless I have to work.

Question 9 of 9