Conditionals — first and second
If … , then …
- A conditional says "if this happens, then that happens".
- At B1 we focus on the first and second conditionals.
- They look similar but mean different things.
First conditional — real future
If + present simple, will + base verb.- For a real, possible future.
- If it rains, we will stay home. If you hurry, you'll catch the bus.
Complete the first conditional: If it rains, we ___ at home.
First conditional: If + present, will + base verb → “will stay”.
Is this correct? “If it will rain, we will stay home.”
The if-clause uses the present, not will: “If it rains, we will stay home.”
Translate into English: 如果下雨,我们就待在家里。
First conditional: If + present, will + base verb.
Second conditional — unreal / unlikely
If + past simple, would + base verb.- For something imaginary or unlikely now.
- If I had more time, I would travel. If I were you, I'd rest.
First or second conditional?
First = real future (present + will); second = unreal now (past + would).
Second conditional: If I ___ you, I would rest. (use the past of “be”)
Second conditional often uses “were” for all subjects: “If I were you …”.
unless
- unless = if … not.
- You'll be late unless you hurry. (= if you don't hurry)
- Don't add another "not" after unless.
Common mistakes
- ❌ If I will have time, I'll help. → ✓ If I have time, I'll help.
- ❌ If I would be rich, I would travel. → ✓ If I were rich… — would stays in the main clause.
- Keep the pair together: real → If + present, will; unreal → If + past, would.
Match each if-clause to its main clause.
First conditional → will; second → would; zero (facts) → present + present.
Which sentence is correct?
Unreal present: If + past simple, would + base.
- First conditional (real): If + present, will + base verb.
- Second conditional (unreal): If + past, would + base verb.
- The if-clause never uses will; unless = if … not.
Imagine an unreal situation. Write one sentence with the second conditional (If + past, would + base verb).
Example: “If I won the lottery, I would travel the world.”