Rules and usage
The zero conditional is the simplest conditional form in English. It expresses what always happens or what is always true when a particular condition is met. We use it for facts, scientific truths, and situations that are automatic or habitual.
When We Use the Zero Conditional
- Use the zero conditional to express general truths about the world. If you heat water to 100 degrees Celsius, it boils. If you add salt to ice, the temperature drops.
- Use it for habitual or automatic actions. If my mother calls me, I always answer. If the alarm goes off, everyone wakes up.
- Use it for statements that are true all the time, not just in specific situations. If you practice every day, you improve. If you arrive late to class, the teacher marks you absent.
- The zero conditional describes cause and effect relationships that are predictable and constant.
✅ Positive sentence examples
| English | English |
|---|
| If you heat water to 100°C, it boils. | |
| If the sun sets, the sky gets dark. | |
⛔ Negative sentence examples
| English | English |
|---|
| If you don't water plants, they don't grow. | |
| If you don't study, you don't pass the exam. | |
❓ Question sentence examples
| English | English |
|---|
| If you add salt to water, does it boil faster? | |
| If you exercise regularly, do you stay healthy? | |