English · B1 · grammar · 5 minutes
First conditional
Use a real future condition with if + present and will/can/may + base verb.
Understand the choice
The present form after if does not mean present time here; it marks an open condition. The result expresses what is expected or possible if that condition is met.
Core rule: A standard first conditional uses present form in the if-clause and a future/modal result in the main clause.
Notice it in context
If the weather improves, we will eat outside.
Si mejora el tiempo, comeremos fuera.
Improves is present after if; will eat gives the future consequence.
You can borrow the car if you return it by six.
Returning the car before six is the condition for permission to use it.
Can expresses permission in the result.
Unless we leave now, we will miss the train.
If we do not leave now, the train will depart without us.
Unless contains negative condition; will miss is consequence.
What to remember
- Unless usually means if not; avoid adding another negative unless the meaning truly requires it.
- When can replace if for an event treated as certain rather than conditional.
Common trap: Do not normally put will after if in a basic future condition.