Overview
This lecture explains the use of conditionals in English, focusing on their structures, types (zero, first, second, third), and how they express arguments or hypothetical situations.
Definition and Purpose of Conditionals
- Conditionals are sentences expressing results based on a condition using an "if" or "when" clause.
- They help state arguments, persuade others, and discuss possible, likely, or hypothetical scenarios.
Structure of Conditional Sentences
- The "if" or "when" clause (conditional clause) states the condition; the main clause states the result.
- The main clause can come before or after the conditional clause without changing the meaning.
Types of Conditionals
Zero Conditional
- Used for general truths and habits.
- Structure: If/When + simple present, simple present.
- Example: If you place it in the fridge, the water freezes.
First Conditional
- Used for real or likely future events.
- Structure: If/When + simple present, will + base verb.
- Example: If you don't pass the test, I will hire a tutor for you.
Second Conditional
- Used for imaginary, unlikely, or impossible present/future scenarios.
- Structure: If + simple past, would + base verb.
- Example: If I received a lot of money, I would buy a new phone.
Third Conditional
- Used for hypothetical past situations and regrets.
- Structure: If + had + past participle, would have + past participle.
- Example: If she had worked hard, she would have passed the course.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Conditional Clause — The part of the sentence that sets the condition (begins with if/when).
- Main Clause — The part expressing the result of the condition.
- Zero Conditional — Used for facts and general truths (both clauses in present tense).
- First Conditional — Used for likely future events (present tense + will).
- Second Conditional — Used for unreal or unlikely present/future (past tense + would).
- Third Conditional — Used for impossible past situations (had + past participle + would have).
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice writing sentences using each type of conditional.
- Review the rules for verb tenses in conditional sentences.