Learn first-conditional Sentences with their Definition, structure, and usage in English. This lesson is going to be very helpful for you about First conditional sentences because it contains the easiest method and explanation of First conditional Sentences with useful example sentences.
Definition of First Conditional
The first conditional indicates something that may happen in the present or future. It has a two-clause structure. This includes an if clause and the main clause.
A comma usually separates the two clauses if the if clause precedes the main clause. The example below illustrates the comma necessity.
- If I win the contest, I will be rich.
When the main clause appears first, there is no need for a comma. The example below shows the lack of a comma.
- I will be rich if I win the contest.
Structure of the First Conditional Sentences:
The first conditional uses a different verb form in each clause. To construct the if clause, you would write if + subject + simple present verb tense. To construct the main clause, you would write subject + will + verb.
First Conditional Form: If + Simple Present, Subject + will/won’t + Verb.
You can reverse the order of the clauses. If the “if” clause comes first, a comma is usually used. If the “if” clause comes second, there is no need for a comma
- I will stay at home if it rains.
First Conditional Sentences Example Sentences:
- The dog will hide if he sees a cat. (It’s possible the dog could see a cat)
- If I visit my grandma, I will go to the park. (It’s possible I could visit my grandma)
- If I remain in Denver, I will purchase a dog. (It’s a possibility I remain in Denver.)
- She will go to the dentist if I take her. (I may take her to the dentist)
- I will be famous if I get a role in the film. (It’s possible that I could get a part in the film)
- If you study hard, you will pass your exams.
- If I find your email, I will send you the picture.
- And, if Mary comes home, I will tell her about the exam.
- If you cook supper, I’ll wash the dishes.
How and When to Use the First Conditional
Conditional sentence type 1 is used to talk about things that are possible in the present or the future.
Examples of conditional sentences of type 1:
- If it rains, I will stay at home.
- If I wake up late, I will miss the bus.
- And, if it‘s sunny, we‘ll go to the park.
- If Juan leaves, Paula will be sad.
We use “may” or “might” to say that a future event is possible but not definite.
For example:
- If you need someone to help you move, I might be able to help.
- If it’s a sunny day tomorrow, we might have a pool party.
Sometimes we use “be going to” instead of “will” in the main clause. This is done to emphasize a certain result.
For example:
- I’m going to give you twenty pounds if you fix my computer for me.
- I’m going to stay for the weekend, if you like.
- If you are not ready, I‘m going to go out without you.
First Conditional Sentences Chart
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