Zero conditional in English

This chapter will discuss the zero conditional in English. This zero conditional is used to talk about general facts, such as scientific events, where the condition and the results always meet. 

Definition and usage of the zero conditional 

The conditional zero is used to talk about general facts, to give instructions, and for scientific facts. The zero conditional uses the present simple tense, because it refers to a time that is now or always. The situation is always real and possible. 

The imperative should be used when giving instructions using the conditional zero. 

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Structure of zero conditional

The conditional zero tense consists of two clauses, the 'if clause' and the 'main clause'. The structure of the zero conditional begins with the word 'if' followed by a present simpe tense that establishes the condition, which is the 'if clause'. The 'if clause' is followed by the 'main clause' which describes the result in the present simple tense. 

Structure: If + present simple + present simple.

In the zero conditional tense the word 'if' can usually be replaced by 'when', without changing the meaning of the sentence. 

Use of then

The zero conditionals can also have the following structure:

Structure: If ..., then ....

Examples

• If you take a shower, then you are clean.
• If you do not study, then you fail. 

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