'Conditional' is a sentence that consists of a conditional clause and a consequence clause.
- Learner's Grammar Dictionary
Conditional is a sentence or clause that begins with 'If' or 'Unless' and expresses a condition.
- Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary
A conditional clause is a type of adverbial clause.
The most common conditional clause is the 'If clause'. Not all conditional clauses are If clauses.
'If' introduces a condition something which may or may not happen.
The If clause usually comes before the main clause. But it may come after the main clause also.
EXAMPLES:
Conditional Clause - Main Clause
If it rains, we will get wet.
If I were a bird, I would fly.
If I had arrived early, I would have caught the train.
Type - I: Open or Possible Condition
In these sentences, the conditional clauses
(If clause) represent open conditions, that is the conditions that may or may not be fulfilled.
Conditions of this sort are sometimes labelled as 'probable'.
eg: If we win today, we'll go to the top position.
(We may win or we may not)
Common Sequence of Tenses/ Structure of Type-I
If + Present simple .... can/ will/ shall/ may/ might/ ought to/ should.
(If clause) (Main clause)
Some Examples:
If clause - Main clause
If you study hard, you can pass the exam.
If we hurry, we will catch the train.
If it rains, we shall stay at home.
If you are ill, you should see a doctor.
NOTE: It is not possible to have a model verb
(eg: will/ would/ could etc) in both the conditional If clause and the main clause.
If we'll hurry, we'll catch the train. (incorrect)
If we hurry, we'll catch the train. (correct)
EXCEPTION
It is possible to have a model verb in the 'If clause' when it is a polite request and not
a condition.
eg: If you'll look after my suitcase, I'll go and buy a ticket.
(Meaning: I request you to look after my suitcase.)
I would be grateful, if you could arrange the meeting next week.
(Meaning: I request you to arrange the meeting)
Present Simple in both the Clauses
We sometimes use the present simple in both the clauses to refer to the present action.
eg: If I eat cheese, it gives me indigestion.
If water freezes, it turns to ice.
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