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 at any time, but most commonly in present

1) situations that can occur at any time(more than once) and their results

2) general truths

3) general instruction

If you press this key, the game starts

If you boil water, it turns into steam

If you want to start, press the red button

I If + Simple Present Simple Future Possible in the present or future

1) possible future events and their results

2) command

3) offer

4) warnings

If it rains, I will stay at home

If you come home late, don’t make noise

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

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

II If + Simple Past Would or + verb Could

. Impossible or not true in the present

. improbable in the future

. imaginary situations

1) improbable future event or situation

2) a hypothetical current situation which is contrary to known facts

3) giving advice

If I won a lottery, I would buy an island

If I knew the answer I would tell you

If I were you, I would see a doctor

III If + Past Perfect Would or + had + past participleCouldShould

Impossible in the past 1) regret

2) criticism.

If I had seen the red light, I would have stoppedIf you had worked hard, you could have passed your exam

Prof. Rahhal Ajbilou CONDITIONALS