Conditional linking words and punctuation, General truths, Possibility/likelihood in the present or future

Conditional linking words and punctuation

Common conditional conjuctions are:
if
as/so long as
unless
even if
providing
provided (that)
on condition that
no matter how/who/what/where/when.

When the clause with the conditional linking word (if, unless etc.) is at the beginning of the sentence, there is a comma:

If you give me your number, I’ll phone you tomorrow.
As long as you take your mobile, I can phone you any time.
No matter how many times you ask me to, I won’t do it.

When the main clause begins the sentence, there is no comma:

– I won’t go unless you come with me. (= if you don’t come with me)
– We’re going on the walk even if it rains.
– I’ll help you on condition that you don’t tell.

Note:

In case is used to describe things we do as precautions against what might happen.

– I’ll take the mobile in case I need to phone you.

Conditional linking words and punctuation, General truths, Possibility/likelihood in the present or future

General truths

Form: If etc. + present simple + present simple in the main clause
Use: to describe a general truth

If there is life on other planets, we are not alone.
Unless lions are frightened or hungry, they’re not very dangerous.

Possibility/likelihood in the present or future

Form: If etc. + present simple/present continuous/present perfect + present continuous, future or imperative in the main clause.
Use: to describe what is possible or likely in the present or future.

– You won’t get an interview unless you‘ve filled in an application form.
Ask Tom to buy the land no matter how much it costs.
If you‘re watching TV, you will see him presenting the news.



Conditional linking words and punctuation, General truths, Possibility/likelihood in the present or future publicat: 2022-01-04T13:56:57+02:00, actualizat: 2022-01-04T15:36:20+02:00 by Colegiu.info