Conditionals 0–3.
A conditional links a condition (the “if” part) to a result. Which one you use depends on how real or likely the situation is.
Zero — general truths
For things that are always true. Both halves use the present.
First — real future possibility
A likely future situation. If + present, then will + verb.
Second — unreal or unlikely now
An imaginary present/future. If + past, then would + verb. (Use “were” for everyone with be.)
Third — unreal past (regret)
Looking back at what didn’t happen. If + had + V3, then would have + V3.
Don’t put “will” or “would” in the if-clause: If it will rain… → If it rains…
See it parsed
Frequently asked
What are the four conditionals in English? The zero conditional states general truths, the first a real future possibility, the second an unreal present, and the third an impossible past.
What is the difference between the second and third conditional? The second conditional imagines an unreal present or future. The third imagines a past that did not happen.