Zero Conditional



Zero Conditional

23. 5. 2020

Definition of the zero conditional

The zero conditional  is used to describe, generally known truths, scientific facts, the time is always and now and the situation is possible and real.

How to form the zero conditional

If-clause
Main clause
If + present simple
present simple

Examples of the zero conditional

If clause

Main clause
If + subject + verb in the present tense Subject + verb in the present tense
If babies are hungry,
they cry.
If you heat ice,
it melts.

As with all conditional sentences, the order of the clauses can be changed. However you may have to rearrange the pronouns and correct the punctuation..


Main clause

If clause
Subject + verb in the present tense If + subject + verb in the present tense
Plants die
if they don’t get enough water
I get hungry

if I don’t eat

In zero sentences, if can be replaced by when without changing the meaning of the sentence.

Examples:
When you heat ice, it melts.
When you don’t give  plants enough water, they die.


What is a conditional sentence.

Conditional sentences are sentences that discuss  known factors or hypothetical situations and their consequences.

A conditional sentence consists of two clauses: the condition or if-clause and the main or result clause.

Overview conditional sentences.

There are five main types of conditional sentences.

  • The Zero Conditional: (if + present simple, ... present simple)
  • The First Conditional: (if + present simple, ... will + infinitive)
  • The Second Conditional: (if + past simple, ... would + infinitive)
  • The Third Conditional. (if + past perfect, ... would + have + past participle)
  • Mixed Conditional. (if + Present conditional… Past perfect)