What is a Conditional?
A grammar device that shows possible results from certain situations is called a “conditional.” The presence of the word “if” will usually call attention to them, and some have actually nicknamed them “if” sentences. There are several types, but three “basic conditionals” are used most frequently.
FIRST CONDITIONAL
This situation is in the future and has a real possibility of happening.
“If Bob comes over, we will watch the game.”
There is a good likelihood that Bob will come over.
SECOND CONDITIONAL
The second also refers to the future but is quite unlikely.
“If I went to the moonI would know if it is made of cheese.”
It is highly improbable that the speaker will visit the moon.
THIRD CONDITIONAL
Unlike the first two, this refers to the past and cannot happen.
“If Jill had gone to the zoo, she would have taken pictures.”
This is in the past and cannot be fulfilled; Jill did not go to the zoo and so her photos are impossibility.
Whether or If
These are often interchanged but actually have different uses. When showing a condition, use “if,” but when showing a choice or alternativesuse “whether.”
“If” implies that the result depends on one specific condition.
“We will go for a walk if it doesn’t rain.”
“If you finish your dinner, you can have some pudding.”
“Whether” shows choices or alternatives and generally requires an “or.” “Or not” is often used for yes/no choices; some consider “or not” redundant and some see it as more formal. “Whether” by itself can hint at both positive and negative possibilities.
“Tell Rachel whether you want chicken or beef for dinner.”
“Whether or not you are going to the partyplease call.
“Let us know whether the school is open.”
SHOULD YOU CALL?
When the speaker only wants you to call if you’ll be there:
“Please call if you are going to Perkie’s Pizza on Friday.”
When the speaker wants you to call either way:
“Please call whether or not you are going to Perkie’s Pizza on Friday.”
“Please call whether you are going to Perkie’s Pizza on Friday.”
To Sum it Up
Is there a result that depends on certain conditions? Use “if.”
Is there some sort of choice? Use “whether.”
Should “or not” be used with “whether?” Some do, some say “sometimes” and some say “don’t bother.” What’s your opinion?
via http://www.grammar.net
Explanation of conditional sentences in Spanish
Exercise 1 on 2nd Conditionals.
Exercise 2 on 2nd Conditionals.
Exercise 3 on 2nd conditionals.
Watch the video about 2nd and 3rd Conditionals and do the quiz below.
Do this exercise to identify the type of conditional sentence.
Exercise 1 on Conditionals. Exercise 2 Exercise 3
Exercise on 3rd Conditionals.
Extra exercises and practice on Conditional Sentences.
Try this quiz
Test yourself
Listen to these songs on this wonderful post.
Inversion cases in conditional sentences:
Grammar on Inversion cases with conditional sentences.
Read this explanation and do the exercise below. Exercise 2 Exercise 3
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