Verb form in if-clause Verb form in result -clause Meaning of if-clause Use Examples

0 If + Simple Present Simple present Real and Possible situations 1) situations that can If you press this key, the game starts
at any time, but most occur at any time(more
commonly in present than once) and their
results

2) general truths If you boil water, it turns into steam

3) general instruction If you want to start, press the red button

I If + Simple Present Simple Future Possible in the present or 1) possible future events If it rains, I will stay at home
future and their results

2) command If you come home late, don’t make noise

3) offer I’ll call the hotel if you don’t have time

4) warnings I’ll call the police if you don’t leave now!

1) improbable future If I won a lottery, I would buy an island

II If + Simple Past Would
or + verb
. Impossible or not true in the event or situation
present
Could
. improbable in the future 2) a hypothetical current If I knew the answer I would tell you
situation which is
. imaginary situations contrary to known facts

3) giving advice If I were you, I would see a doctor

III If + Past Perfect Would Impossible in the past 1) regret If I had seen the red light, I would have
or + had + past participle stopped
Could 2) criticism If you had worked hard, you could have
Should . passed your exam
Prof. Rahhal Ajbilou CONDITIONALS