Conditional - BE 4 Unit 11

Conditional BE 4 Unit 11 :

We use conditional sentences to make hypothetical statements and questions.

We will deliver within 24 hours if you order online.

If we order now, will you give us a discount?

The use of if+will+verb suggests that these arrangement are feasible.

If the proposal is more tentative or possibly less feasible, would + past verb forms are used.

I would need some venture capital if I was/were to start my own business.

If I got a guarantee for the loan, I would lend them the money.

If I had invested my savings in the company, I would have made a fortune.

If the verb is had, were, or should, we can leave out if and put the verb at the beginning. The sentence is now more formal.

Had it not been for his help, we would not have survived.

Were it not for Pat, we would be in a terrible mess.

Should you require any further information, do not hesitate to contact me.

These words are also used in conditional sentences.

We will meet tomorrow providing/provided (that) no one has an objection.

Even the best management teams will not be successful unless they are given the resources.

You can say what you like as long as you don’t make any criticisms.

Supposing (that) we decide to use the Top service, how much would it cost?

Mixed conditionals follow a variety of patterns.

If you need help, just ask. (an offer)

If Peter wants to see me, tell him to wait. (an instruction)

If you hadn’t invested in e-commerce, our sales would be much lower. (This is true now, so wouldn’t have been is inappropriate).

I would be grateful if you would give me an early reply. (a polite request).

These are other examples of conditional sentences.

Ignore the media, and we will never be able to protect our reputation.

Tell us what you need to get the job done and you will have it.

Should you need any further information, please contact the crisis team.

Given time, our company can recover from the current crisis.