Zero conditional

Question

Hello teachersAre these two sentences zero conditional even though they contain modals. "if you want to get a promotion here, you must work harder""You can live more comfortably, if you earn a lot of money"I'm confused with modals in conditionals,  could someone explain me how they work?Thank you very much in advance

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

DjbAre these two sentences zero conditional even though they contain modals.

Books vary on the definition of "zero conditional".

I don't see any problem in calling your sentences zero conditionals.

In your sentences, 'can' and 'must' are treated the same as any present tense verb.

CJ

Djb · Answer

Ok, thanks !

Fivejedjon · Answer

The problem with trying to fit all conditionals into a first/second/third/mixed/zero conditionals scheme is that there are many conditional sentences that just cannot be shoehorned into it.

In that so-called zero conditionals generally deal with universal truths (If you heat ice, it melts) or habitual situations (If my wife cooks, I wash up), "You can live more comfortably, if you earn a lot of money" can probably be considered a zero conditional.

The so-called first conditionals generally deal with a future real possibility (If it's fine tomorrow, we'll have a barbecue).

Iif you want to get a promotion here, you must work harder" can be thought of as a zero conditional - this is a general statement about the situation here or as a first conditional - the speaker is obliging the addressee to do something in order to obtain promotion.

Zero conditional

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