In english, we use zero conditional sentences for general truth and possibility of future. In such formation, simple present tense is used in both clauses like if…. and main main clause.
1.Wind begins to blow if there is pressure difference. (Conditional sentence for General truth)
2.Sun shines if there is clear sky.(conditional sentence for General truth)
3.Blood pressure increases if you get tension. (Conditional sentence for possibility)
The Carbon dioxide can be reduced if we plant more trees. (Conditional sentence for possibility)
Easy guide to learn zero conditional sentence for General truth and possibility
Above examples express realistic scenarios in terms of probable outcome or universal truth. In this formation, future tense is not used in the main clause like in the other conditional sentences.
Rule regarding future tense in conditional sentence
Grammatically, future tense is not applicable in the if … clause while forming any conditional sentences. In addition, comma is used to separate if…. clause from main clause only if the adverb clause is used before main clause.
If I will complete assignment, no one punish me. ( Wrong formation)
If I complete my assignment, teacher will not punish me. Or, no one punish me if I complete my assignment.
Like, wind begins to blow if there is pressure difference. In this sentence, comma has been omitted because if…. clause is placed after main clause.
If there is pressure difference, wind begins to blow. Here, comma has placed to separate adverb clause.
Hidden meaning of zero conditional sentence
Hidden meaning of zero conditional sentences for general truth and possibility is that the outcome expressed in main clause only possible if the condition expressed in if… clause fulfilled.
Forming conditional sentences isn’t as easy as you form simple. To form conditional sentences, adverb clause of condition is used. Zero, first, second, and third Conditional sentences. we form by if…. clause with different tense structure.
Useful examples of conditional sentences for general truth and possibility
For clear insight of zero conditional sentences, it is important to read more examples we use daily. Following are some useful examples. Just take a look.
If it is proven fact, it is called general truth or universal truth. Else, it is considered likelihood or possibility.
a) Carbon dioxide can be reduced if we plant more trees.(factually true or general truth)
b) Constipation is avoidable if we consume more fibre and do regular exercise. (General truth)
c) Per capita income grows if we earn more skills.(possibility)
d) Heart beats rapidly if we run fast. (Universal truth)
e) We easily eliminate contagious disease if you support vaccination.(Factually true)
f) Government collapses if it looses majority in house.(Universal truth)
g) Water overflows if there are illegal mining in river.(possibility)
h) Prices rises beyond normal limit if government prints more money.(general principle)
I) People get more jobs if government supports foreign direct investment.(likelihood)
j) Density of bone improves if you run regularly.(possibility)
k) Seasons results if earth revolves around the sun.(universal truth)
l)Glacier melts if the temperature rises.(General truth)
m) Disease becomes pandemic if it spreads in more regions.(True based on parameters)
n) Water aquifer dries if water fails to seep.(Factually true)
o)Teeth decays if you eat unhealthy food.(medically proven)
p)Lioness ambushes pray if she becomes hungry.(possibility)
More similar examples of conditional sentences for general truth and possibility
- We remain fit if we exercise regularly (likelihood)
- People respect you if you respect others.(Widely said)
- Nature cares you if you take care of it.(Always predictable)
- Soil erosion minimises if we do in-situ conservation.
- Your team wins championship if you make proper strategy.
- Dog barks at you if you irritate.
- Infection increases if you show carelessness
- Population of mosquitoes increases if you leave garbage elsewhere.
- He plays properly if you guide him.
- Inflation rises if national income slumps.
These are some useful examples of zero conditional sentences for general truth and possibility.
Hypothetical imagination and missed opportunity
Correct use of Provided that and on condition that