Conditionals
What is meant by the 'first', 'second' and 'third' conditionals?
first conditional
second conditional
third conditional
first conditional
This refers to a grammar structure used to talk about the ‘likely’ result of something happening or not happening. The grammar structure is:
if-clause: 'if' + present tense (eats)
main clause: will or won't
If he takes these antibiotics, he’ll get better quickly. If he doesn’t, he won’t.
Note! Certain other modal verbs (for example, might, but not would), can be used in the main clause.
second conditional
This refers to a grammar structure used to talk about an ‘unreal’ or ‘unlikely’ situation. The grammar structure is:
If-clause: 'if' + past tense (ate)
Main clause: 'would' or 'wouldn't'
If my shares went up 500% I’d sell them instantly. (but it’s unlikely that they will go up 500%)
Note! Could and might can also be used in the main clause.
third conditional
This refers to a grammar structure used to imagine the impossible. It is impossible because something happened in the past and can’t be changed. The grammar structure is:
If-clause: 'if' + past perfect (had eaten)
Main clause: would have + past participle (eaten)
You would have passed your exam if you had studied harder. (but you didn’t study hard and you didn't pass your exam)
Note! Could have and might have can also be used in the main clause.
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