If-Clauses in English Grammar: Zero Conditional
CONTENT
Zero conditional is used to express things that always happen providing a certain condition (expressed in the if-clause) is met.
Example
Explanation
If you heat water, it boils.
Zero conditional is used to express an action that always happens.
Construction
Rule 1: To form the zero conditional, we use the present tense in both the if-clause and the main clause.
Example
Explanation
You get ice if you freeze water.
Zero conditional is formed by using present tense in both clauses.
Note: We can reverse the order of the clauses with no change in meaning. But, if the if-clause comes first, it should be separated by a comma. If the main clause is first, we don't need a comma.
Usage
Rule 2: We use zero conditional if-clauses to express general facts and truths.
Example
Explanation
Plants die if they don't get enough water.
Zero conditional is used to express a general fact.
Rule 3: We use zero conditional if-clauses to talk about habits.
Example
Explanation
If it is warm outside, I start my day with a jog around the park.
Zero conditional is used to express one's habit.
Rule 4: We use zero conditional if-clauses to talk about rules.
Example
Explanation
If you drive a car, put a seatbelt on.
Zero conditional is used to express a general traffic rule.
If Vs. When
Rule 5: Zero conditional sentences express almost the same meaning as time clauses with when (emphasizes the certainty of an action) and whenever (i.e., at any time or every time when).
Example
Explanation
If I exercise, I feel better. = When I exercise, I feel better.
Zero conditional if-clause and time clause with when have the same meaning.
I start my day with a jog around the park if it is warm outside. = I start my day with a jog around the park whenever it is warm outside.
Zero conditional if-clause and time clause with whenever have the same meaning.
Quiz
1/4
Choose the correct option to form zero conditional. If you're a vegan, you ___ animal products.
0
correct answers.