Zero Conditional
Elementary (A2)en
Zero conditional
Zero Conditional
In this lesson, you will learn how to use the zero conditional to talk about things that are always true or happen every time under certain conditions.
1. What Is the Zero Conditional?
The zero conditional is used to talk about:
1. What Is the Zero Conditional?
The zero conditional is used to talk about:
- Things that are always true
- Scientific facts or general truths
- Cause and effect situations (if this happens, that always happens)
Key idea:
If clause (the condition) and the main clause (the result)
If clause (present simple) + main clause (present simple)
You can start with either the if-clause or the main clause.
If clause (the condition) and the main clause (the result)
If clause (present simple) + main clause (present simple)
You can start with either the if-clause or the main clause.
- If the if-clause comes first, put a comma after it.
- If the if-clause comes second, do not use a comma.
2. Structure of Zero Conditional
If + subject + present simple, subject + present simple
Examples:
- “If you heat water to 100°C, it boils.”
- “If I drink coffee late, I cannot sleep.”
- “If it rains, the grass gets wet.”
Note: The order of the clauses can change:
- “Water boils if you heat it to 100°C.”
(No comma is needed when the if-clause comes second.)
3. Using Zero Conditional
A. Facts & Scientific Truths
- “If you mix red and blue, you get purple.”
- “If the sun sets, it gets dark.”
B. Habits & Everyday Routines
- “If I finish work early, I go to the gym.”
- “If he wakes up late, he misses the bus.”
C. Cause and Effect
- “If you touch fire, you get burned.”
- “If it rains, streets get wet.”
4. Quick Decision Guide
Ask yourself:
- Is this always true?
- Is it a fact, habit, or general truth?
If yes → use zero conditional
5. Easy Way to Remember
Zero conditional → facts, always true
Think: “If this happens, that always happens.”
Related Vocabulary
Expand your vocabulary with words related to this grammar topic