Conditional 1: Modal Verbs for Uncertainty in Future Actions

Conditional 1 - Neither, Either, Might, Could, So Do I, Too, May

Conditional 1 is a type of sentence used to express uncertainty about future actions or situations, often involving various modal verbs such as 'neither', 'either', 'might', 'could', 'so do I', 'too', and 'may'. In this section, we will explore each of these modal verbs and their functions within the sentence structure of Conditional 1.

Neither... nor...

'Neither' is used to show that one option or possibility is not available due to the presence of another. It introduces two choices that cannot both happen simultaneously. For example: "I can either come tomorrow or Sunday, but I cannot come both days."

Either... or...

'Either' is used to introduce two options, stating that only one of them can be possible. For instance, if you say "You can either eat ice cream or cake," it means that you can choose between eating ice cream or cake, but you cannot eat both.

Might

The word 'might' is used to indicate a small degree of probability or potentiality. It implies less certainty than other conditionals like 'would'. For example, consider the following sentences: "If it rains, he might stay home." - This suggests there is a chance it won't rain, and he might still go out despite the rain.

Could

'Could' is similar to 'might', but it presents more possibilities, indicating a higher level of likelihood. If 'might' suggests something is theoretically possible but unlikely with a low degree of confidence, 'could' indicates more probable action given the circumstances. For example: "If she has time, she could visit her sister next weekend." - This suggests she probably does have time and it's likely she will visit her sister next weekend.

So Do I

This phrase is used to express agreement with something that someone else has said. It is typically used as part of a dialogue and indicates that you share the same opinion or sentiment as the other person. For example: Person A: "If we start early, we could finish on time." Person B: "So do I. Let's plan to leave by 8 AM if we want to make it on time."

Too

'Too' can be used to show that something is also true for the second option or possibility mentioned earlier. It implies a continuation of the situation described by the first conditional clause. Here's an example: "If he works hard, he could get a promotion too." - This means that if he works hard and gets a promotion, his colleague (who is being compared) could also receive a promotion due to their similar efforts.

May

'May' indicates a higher degree of uncertainty than 'could'. It suggests that there is a possibility, but it might not happen because other factors are involved. For example: "If you ask nicely, they may let you borrow their laptop." - This sentence implies that asking nicely increases the chances of getting permission to borrow the laptop, but it isn't guaranteed.