français · B1 · grammar · 4 minutes
Real conditions with si
Use present after si and future, present, or imperative in the result.
Understand the choice
The si clause names a condition still possible. French keeps that condition in the present even when its consequence lies in the future. This is a structural rule, not a statement that booking happens now.
Core rule: For an open real condition, use si + present; the result can use future, present, or imperative, but never future directly after si.
Notice it in context
Si vous réservez aujourd’hui, vous bénéficierez du tarif réduit.
If you book today, you will receive the reduced rate.
Réservez is present after si; bénéficierez places the benefit in the future.
Si tu as le temps, appelle-moi.
If you have time, call me.
Present condition combines with an imperative result.
S’il pleut, nous restons à la maison.
If it rains, we stay at home.
Two present forms can describe a habitual or immediate result.
What to remember
- Si elides only before il and ils: s’il, s’ils, but si elle.
- Quand assumes the event will occur; si leaves the condition open.
Common trap: Do not write si vous réserverez. Future belongs in the result: si vous réservez, vous bénéficierez.