Conditional Type 1 (First Conditional)
Introduction
The first conditional talks about real possibilities in the future. We use it for things that will probably or possibly happen.
Structure: If + simple present, will + base verb
Key idea: If this happens (it's possible), this will be the result
When Do We Use It?
1. For Real Future Possibilities
When something is likely or possible to happen:
Examples
- If it rains tomorrow, we will stay at home.
- If I have time, I'll finish my homework.
- What will you do if you miss the bus?
- If you study hard, you'll pass the exam.
2. For Warnings
Examples
- If you drop that glass, it will break.
- If you don't hurry, you'll be late.
- You'll get sick if you don't eat properly.
- If you touch the stove, you'll burn yourself.
3. With Modals for Different Meanings
You can use modals (can, may, might, should) instead of "will" to express different levels of certainty or give advice:
Examples
- If you drop that glass, it might break. (possibility)
- If he calls you, you should answer. (advice)
- I may finish that letter if I have time. (possibility)
- If you help me, I can finish faster. (ability)
Structure
In a type 1 conditional sentence, the tense in the "if" clause is the simple present, and the tense in the main clause is the simple future.
| If clause | Main clause |
|---|---|
if + Simple Present | Simple Future |
| If this happens, | that will happen |
As in all conditional sentences, the order of the clauses is not fixed. You may have to rearrange the pronouns and adjust punctuation when you change the order of the clauses, but the meaning is identical.
Examples
- If it rains, you will get wet.
- You will get wet if it rains.
- If Sally is late again I will be mad.
- I will be mad if Sally is late again.
- If you don't hurry, you will miss the bus.
- You will miss the bus if you don't hurry.