Zero conditional

ZERO CONDITIONAL

USAGE

When we want to describe a situation that depends on something else, we can use a conditional. A conditional has two parts - the if-clause and the main clause. We talk about the situation or action in the if-clause and the result in the main clause. 

For example

If you finish your homework, you can go out and play. 

(if-clause = action) (main clause = result) 

Zero Conditional / Conditional Type O

Usage

We use Zero Conditional to talk about: 

1. General truths

If we eat contaminated food, we become ill. 

If we don’t feel well, we see a doctor.

2. Scientific facts

If we heat water to 100 degrees Centigrade, it boils. 

3. Imperatives

If you don’t feel well, see a doctor.  

Form

If - clause main clause

Present Simple Present Simple 

Notes: 

We can also use when instead of ‘if’ in Zero Conditional, particularly when we talk about things that are generally true or habitually happen. 

For example,

When there is a typhoon, most people stay at home. 

John’s face turns red when he gets very angry.