The first conditional is used to express possible future results based on present situations.
First conditional sentences are commonly used to:
-
offer suggestions
-
talk about superstitions
-
make plans
-
give warnings
The first conditional is also called real conditional. It is used to express results that are likely to happen if the condition is met.
The usual structure of a first conditional sentence is:
Conditional sentences contain two clauses:
-
Conditional clause (commonly called the if-clause)
-
the condition/situation
-
dependent clause—it needs the hypothetical result to form a complete sentence
-
contains a conditional clause marker—subordinating conjunction such as the words “if,” “when,” “as,” etc.
-
Main clause
-
the result
-
independent clause—makes sense on its own
Some cultures believe that black cats bring good luck. Other cultures believe the opposite.
