Conditionals

Type 1: it is used when the time referred to is now or always and the situation is real and possible. This type of conditional is usually used to talk about general facts. The verb tense of both propositions is the "simple present". In this conditional sentences, the term "if" can usually be replaced by "when" without changing the meaning.

Example:

If you heat ice, it melts

Type 2: it is used to refer to the present or future when the situation is real. Conditional type 1 refers to a possible condition and its probable outcome. In these sentences, the "if" clause adopts the "simple present" and the main proposition the "simple future".

Example:

If this thing happens, thatb thing will happen

Type 3: it is used to refer to a time situated in the past and to a situation contrary to reality. It is based on facts that are opposed to what is being expressed. This conditional is used to refer to a condition of the past that is not real, as well as to its probable outcome in the past. In these sentences, the "if" clause adopts the "past perfect" and the main proposition the "perfect conditional".

Example:

If it had rained, you would have gotten wet.

Type 4: it is used to refer to a time in the past and a situation that has not yet ended in the present. It is based on facts that are opposed to what is being expressed. It is used to refer to a condition of the past that is not real and to its probable outcome in the present. In these sentences, the "if" proposition adopts the "past perfect" and the main clause the "present conditional".

Example:

if we had looked at the map, we wouldn't be lost. By: Nefi Catzin