Lesson 4 of 6
If Sentences (Conditionals)
Talk about real possibilities, imaginary situations and regrets.
Conditionals let you talk about possibilities, give advice, imagine and express regret. Advanced speakers use them constantly. Instead of four confusing "types", think of them as real, unreal and past-unreal.
LearnThe key ideas
The patterns
| Type | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Always true | If + present, present | If you heat ice, it melts. |
| Real future | If + present, will | If it rains, I'll stay home. |
| Imaginary now | If + past, would | If I had more time, I'd learn Spanish. |
| Imaginary past (regret) | If + had done, would have done | If I'd left earlier, I wouldn't have missed the flight. |
Speaking tips
Never put "will" after "if": "If it will rain" is wrong. Say "If it rains".
In speech, "would have" sounds like "would've" or even "woulda": "I woulda called you." "If I were you" is the classic way to give advice: "If I were you, I'd take the job."
ListenListen and repeat
- If you need anything, just let me know.A real possibility.
- If I were you, I'd talk to him.Giving advice.
- What would you do if you won the lottery?An imaginary situation.
- If I'd known, I would've come.Regret about the past.
AvoidCommon mistakes
SpeakShadowing practice
Press Listen, then repeat straight away, copying the speed, rhythm and tone. Say each sentence three times, then record yourself.
- If you get a chance, give me a call.
- If I had a car, I'd drive you to the airport.
- If I'd studied harder, I would've passed.
CheckQuick quiz
1. "If it ___ tomorrow, we'll stay inside."
2. Giving advice:
3. Regret about the past:
PracticeToday's speaking task
Answer out loud: What would you do if you didn't have to work? What will you do if you get a free weekend? What would you have done differently last year?