English Conditionals and Conditional Conjunctions

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions, uses, structures, and conjunctions of zero, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd English conditionals.

Zero Conditional (Use)

Used to talk about things which are always true and to give commands.

Zero Conditional (Structure)

If/when clause in Present simple, result clause in Present simple or imperative (e.g., If you heat ice, it melts).

1st Conditional (Use)

Used to talk about things which are possible in the present or the future, and to make promises and give warnings.

1st Conditional (Structure)

If/when clause in Present simple, result clause in Will + infinitive (e.g., If I finish my homework early, I’ll watch tv).

2nd Conditional (Use)

Used to talk about things which are unreal in the present or the future (hypothetical present and future situations).

2nd Conditional (Structure)

If clause in Past Simple, condition clause in Would + infinitive (e.g., If Alice moved abroad, she would learn another language).

2nd Conditional (Formal Grammar Rule for 'be')

Formal grammar requires using WERE for the past tense of 'be' for all subjects (including I, he, she), such as 'If I were you, I would buy that house.'

3rd Conditional (Use)

Used to talk about hypothetical past events (events which did not happen).

3rd Conditional (Structure)

If clause in Past perfect, condition clause in Perfect conditional.

Unless

A conditional conjunction meaning 'If….not'.

In case

A conditional conjunction meaning a result will be prepared if a condition takes place.

As long as / Provided / Providing that

Conditional conjunctions meaning 'Only if', used with the first and second conditionals.

I wish / If only (+ past simple or continuous)

Used when you don't like a present state or situation.

I wish / If only (+ Past perfect)

Used to express regret.

I wish / If only (+ Simple conditional)

Used to express a complaint.

Otherwise

A conditional conjunction meaning 'Or else'.

Supposing

A conditional conjunction meaning 'Suponiendo que…'.