EXPLANATION
English conditional statements are grouped into four main types - zero, first, second, and third conditional.
All conditionals have two clauses, the if clause
- "If you have time, ..."
and the main clause
- "...come and visit us".
Either of these two clauses can come first:
- "If it rains take an umbrella" - or also:
- "Take an umbrella if it rains."
Zero Conditional
The zero conditional is used for statements and facts which are perceived to be true = certainty
The zero conditional has the form if + present simple / simple present. For example:
- If you need any help just call me.
- If you run fast you get tired.
First Conditional
The first conditional is used to express that something is possible in the present or in the future. It used to indication that something may happen = high probability.
The first conditional has the form if + simple present / simple future. For example:
- If you eat too much, your tummy will hurt.
- If you study harder, you will pass the exam.
Second Conditional
The second conditional is used for statements and facts that are not true or are not possible = unreal
The second conditional has the form if + simple past / would + verb. For example:
- If I were you, I would drive more slowly.
- If I had a million euros, I would buy a new house and a new car.
Third Conditional
The third conditional is used for statements and facts that did not happen in the past. It is used to express criticism or regret = hypothetical
The third conditional has the form if + past perfect / would + have + -ed. For example:
- If I had been more careful, I would not have broken the vase.
- If Brendon had called me, we would have gone to the restaurant together.
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