First conditional sentence talks about real possibilities in the future in English.
It’s perfect for making predictions, giving advice, or expressing what might happen if something else does.
Let’s dive into how it works and why it’s one of the most useful grammar tools you’ll use in English.
What is the First Conditional Sentence?
As stated above, the first conditional sentence is used to talk about real and possible situations in the future.
It describes a condition that is likely to happen and the result that will follow if that condition is met.
Think of it like a cause-and-effect statement for the future. For example: “If it rains, we will stay home.”
This means there's a real chance of rain, and staying home is the logical result.
This conditional is often used when we want to offer warnings, give advice, make promises, or express possibilities based on real conditions.
How to Form First Conditional Sentences
Forming a first conditional sentence is easy! The structure looks like this:
If + present simple, subject + will + base verb
Let’s break it down:
- Condition part (If-clause): Uses the present simple tense.
- Result part (Main clause): Uses subject + will + base form of the verb.
Example: If she studies hard, she will pass the test.
You can also switch the order: She will pass the test if she studies hard.
Just remember, if the sentence starts with "if," don’t forget to include a comma before the main clause!
Examples of First Conditional Sentences
Here are 10 examples to help you see how the first conditional works in real-life situations:
- If I see Maria tomorrow, I’ll tell him the news.
- If you eat too much sugar, you’ll feel sick.
- If we don’t hurry, we’ll miss the bus.
- If they arrive late, we’ll start without them.
- If it’s sunny this weekend, we’ll go to the beach.
- If you help me with this project, I’ll buy you lunch.
- If she calls you, will you answer?
- If we save enough money, we’ll travel to Japan.
- If he doesn’t study, he won’t pass the exam.
- If you touch that wire, you’ll get an electric shock!
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how the first conditional structure works, it’s time to put it into action!
Try creating your own sentences about real situations in your life, like, “If I study tonight, I’ll ace my test tomorrow.”
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