(Here’s an Audiovisual Lecture on Conditional Sentences: https://youtu.be/k-2VikvgmEY)
Conditional sentences help us to communicate out ideas more effectively in speech and in writing,. They make it easy for us to talk about present and future events in a variety of ways. We can use conditional sentences to give advice, express regret, or discus facts. Conditionals also help us to talk about our imaginations: we can express our ideas concerning things we feel may happen, things which might have happened, or even things we wish would happen.
WHAT IS A CONDITIONAL SENTENCE?
A conditional sentence is made up of an If-Clause (condition), and a main clause (result): Example: If you work hard, you will pass your exams. If you work hard (a condition), you will pass your exams (the result).
TYPES OF CONDITIONALS
There are four basic types of conditionals, namely the zero, first, second, and third conditionals. It is also possible to mix them up, but that is a topic for another day. The following are the four basic types of conditionals:
1. Zero or Actual Conditional: This type is called the zero conditional sentence and it expresses what actually happens. We use it to express universal truths, scientific facts or habitual actions. Examples: A. When a cub of sugar is put in water, it dissolves. B. When the sun rises, the weather is hot.
2. First or Likely Conditional: This type is called the first conditional, and it expresses a likely future event or what could happen. Examples: A. If it rains, I’ll not go to school. B. If I meet him, I’ll give him the letter
3. Second or Unlikely Conditional: This type is called the second conditional, and it expresses an unlikely event in the future. Examples: A. If it rained, the streets would get wet. B. If I left home early I would catch the train.
4. Third or Impossible Conditional: This type is called the third conditional, and it expresses an impossible situation. It’s called an impossible situation because it never happened. Examples: A. If it had rained, the streets would have been wet. B. If you had worked hard, you would have succeeded.
For a more detailed audio-visual explanation of the conditional sentences and how to use them in English grammar, watch the following video lecture: https://youtu.be/k-2VikvgmEY
EBOOKS FOR FURTHER STUDIES:
- Good Success in English: A Study Package or Good Success in English: A Study Package for Effective English Learning
- Good Success English Handbook
About the Author
Benjamin Abugu is a university graduate with a flair for content writing. He is an English teacher with over twelve years experience, a published author of many books (both paperback and eBook editions), a blogger and Youtuber.
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