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Cup cake Posted 6 years ago
Grammar

Difference between zero and first conditionals.

Hi Everyone,

I'm preparing a revision lesson on conditionals. I still have issues with zero and first conditionals. Given we can use 'will' with first conditionals, what is the true difference between zero and first. I know that zero is to do with truths, but I anticipate I'll have a student ask, "what is the difference between using 'will' in this example if you can use it in a zero conditional sentence?"

I've always struggled with this issue.

Thanks,

Cup Cake

  

Top answer

0. If you heat ice, it melts. (present, present) Also (according to some sources) 0.

— CalifJim

  • 0.
  • If you heat ice, it melts.
  • (present, present) Also (according to some sources) 0.
  • If you want to come with us, call me before 6 pm.
  • (present, imperative) 1.
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1 Answers
0

0. If you heat ice, it melts. (present, present)

Also (according to some sources)

0. If you want to come with us, call me before 6 pm. (present, imperative)

1. If you find any mistakes, I'll give you $100. (present, future)

It's all about the tenses — not about truths.

CJ

0

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