Grammar: First Conditional
B1 Lesson 18: Real Future Possibilities
When to Use the First Conditional
We use the First Conditional to talk about a specific, real possibility in the future. It's different from the Zero Conditional, which is for general facts. Think of it for plans, promises, and warnings about the future.
Zero vs. First Conditional
If you heat water to 100°C, it boils. (This is a scientific fact, always true).
If the weather is nice tomorrow, we will go to the beach. (A specific plan for a possible future event).
The Grammar Rule 📖
How to Form the First Conditional
| Clause | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| If Clause (Condition) | If + Subject + Present Simple | If you study hard, |
| Main Clause (Result) | Subject + will + Base Verb | you will pass the exam. |
Note: You can switch the clauses. If the 'if' clause comes second, you don't need a comma.
Example: You will pass the exam if you study hard.
In Conversation
Let's see how the First Conditional is used in a real conversation about the Pchum Ben holiday.
Practice Your Grammar 🎯
Exercise: Complete the Sentences
Use the correct form of the verbs in brackets to make First Conditional sentences.
- If you ___ (study) hard, you ___ (pass) the test.
→ study / will pass - We ___ (miss) our flight if we ___ (not leave) now.
→ will miss / don't leave - What ___ you ___ (do) if your friend ___ (be) late?
→ will you do / is - She ___ (be) upset if she ___ (hear) about the problem.
→ will be / hears
Your Grammar Mission ⭐
What Will You Do?
Complete these sentences with your own real future possibilities.
- If I have enough money next year, I ________________.
- If the weather is good this weekend, I ________________.
- I will learn English faster if ______________________.
Key Vocabulary
- First Conditional A sentence structure for real possibilities in the future.
- Possibility A thing that may happen or be true.
- Future The time that will come after the present moment.