Zero vs First Conditional

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Questions and Answers

What is the structure of the zero conditional?

If + present simple + present simple (correct)

If + past simple + present simple

If + present simple + will + verb

If + present perfect + present simple

When is the first conditional used?

To state general truths

To express scientific laws

For predictions about future events (correct)

For habitual actions

Which sentence best exemplifies the zero conditional?

If it rains, the ground gets wet. (correct)

If he calls, I will answer.

If I see her, I will say hello.

If you try hard, you will succeed.

Which of the following is a characteristic of the zero conditional?

It describes habitual actions. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the zero and first conditional?

The zero conditional states facts, while the first conditional describes probable future outcomes. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which example illustrates the use of the first conditional?

If I work late, I will miss the bus. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about using the zero conditional is true?

It can describe laws of nature. (C) Signup and view all the answers

In what context is the first conditional most appropriately used?

When discussing future events that are possible. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly defines a zero conditional statement?

A statement that is always true under certain conditions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which sentence demonstrates a relationship where the result is always true, based on a given condition?

If you mix blue and yellow, you get green. (D) Signup and view all the answers

In a first conditional sentence, what does the main clause express?

A probable future result dependent on a condition. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the simple present tense in the if-clause of both zero and first conditional sentences?

To define the condition that may or may not happen. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a scenario appropriate for using the zero conditional?

A universal truth or fact. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which sentence correctly uses 'will' to indicate a probable future consequence?

If I don't have enough sleep, I will feel tired. (D) Signup and view all the answers

If you see lightning, what should have happened already to make a zero conditional statement?

You hear thunder. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following main clauses is appropriate for a first conditional sentence that begins, 'If I save enough money...'?

I will buy a new car. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which sentence accurately represents a habit associated with the zero conditional?

If I go to bed late, I always feel tired the next day. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which pair of clauses correctly represents the general structure of a sentence using the first conditional?

If + simple present, will + base form (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which sentence uses the zero conditional to describe a scientific fact?

If you add salt to water, you make it boil faster. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Zero Conditional

The zero conditional describes a general truth or a habitual action.
It's used when the result of an action is always true under certain conditions.
The structure is "If + present simple + present simple."
Example: If it rains, the ground gets wet.
This sentence means it's always true that if it rains, the ground gets wet.
It's essentially a general rule or law of nature; a scientific fact or a statement about habitual behaviour.

First Conditional

The first conditional describes a possible future result which may depend on a condition.
It deals with probable actions or results that are possible to occur in the future.
The structure is "If + present simple + will/won't + verb."
Example: If I study hard, I will pass the exam.
This sentence expresses the possible result of future action.
It's a prediction of what might happen.

Key Differences

The zero conditional describes things that are always true whilst the first conditional describes possibilities in the future.
The zero conditional deals with facts and habitual actions while the first conditional deals with actions that might happen in the future.

When to Use Each Conditional

Zero conditional: statements that always hold true; general truths, scientific facts, regular habits.
First conditional: talking about possible future events, predictions, results dependent on a condition.

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Description

This quiz covers the differences between the zero conditional and first conditional in English grammar. You will learn their structures, uses, and see examples illustrating each type. Test your understanding of conditional sentences and their applications in expressing truths and future possibilities.