Common Conditional expressions are an essential part of English communication, helping speakers and writers express hypothetical situations, assumptions, and the consequences of events. These expressions allow us to structure our thoughts logically, imagine outcomes, or set conditions for actions. From formal discussions to everyday conversations, conditional phrases add clarity and precision to language.
This lesson will explore various conditional expressions in English, explaining their meanings, contexts, and usage. Each section includes examples to help learners understand how to apply these expressions in their conversations or writing. At the end, you’ll find a fun practice quiz to test your knowledge. Let’s dive into the world of conditional language and expand your ability to express ideas effectively!
List of Common Conditional Expressions
Let’s explore various conditional expressions in English, explaining their meanings, contexts, and usage.
1. Assuming (That)
This phrase is used to accept something as true without being entirely sure about it.
- Assuming that all goes well, how long is the project expected to take?
- Even assuming that smokers do see the health warnings, I doubt they’ll take any notice.
2. If + Were To
In formal situations, “if + were to” is used to discuss unlikely scenarios.
- If the Prime Minister were to resign, there would have to be a general election within 30 days.
- Even if England were to win the next two matches, Germany would still be three points ahead.
3. In Case / In Case of (+ Noun)
This expression is used when preparing for or considering potential events.
- Bring a map in case you get lost.
- The camping area has ready access to water, in case of fire.
Also Learn: Transition Magic in Writing – What, Why, When, How
4. In the Event of Something
Used in formal English to talk about possible events and their outcomes.
- In the event of a strike, the army will take over responsibility for firefighting.
- In the event that the performance is canceled, you can get your money back.
5. But For
This phrase introduces reasons why something did or did not happen.
- But for the traffic, I would have been here an hour ago.
- I might never have gone to university but for you. [Common Conditional expressions]
6. On (The) Condition That
This is used to mean “only if.”
- I’ll come to the party on the condition that you don’t wear those ridiculous trousers!
- The bank lent the company 100,000 pounds on the condition that they repay the money within six months.
7. Or Else
Often used as a warning about what will happen if a condition is unmet.
- We must be there by six, or else we’ll miss the beginning.
- He’d better find it quickly, or else!
8. Or / Otherwise
Used to describe negative consequences if something is not done.
- You’ve got to start studying, or you’ll fail all those exams.
- We’d better send it express; otherwise, it’ll take days.
9. Providing (That) / Provided (That)
These expressions mean “if” and are commonly used to set conditions.
- We’ll buy everything you produce, providing the price is right.
- They may do whatever they like, provided that it is within the law.
Also read: How to Use “there is no doing something” in a Sentence
10. So Long As / As Long As
Used to indicate a condition under which something is true or will happen.
- You can play in the living room as long as you don’t make a mess. [Common Conditional expressions]
- So long as there is demand for these drugs, the financial incentive for drug dealers will be there.
11. Supposing (That)
This phrase is used to ask hypothetical questions.
- Supposing that you are wrong, what will you do then?
- Suppose we miss the train—what will we do then?
12. Unless
This term is used to describe conditions that must not occur for something else to happen.
- You won’t get paid for time off unless you have a doctor’s note.
- I won’t agree unless you agree too.
Conditional Expressions Quiz
Test your understanding of conditional expressions by filling in the blanks with the correct phrases from the lesson.
- ___________ you get lost, call me immediately.
- I’ll lend you the book ___________ you promise to return it by next week.
- ___________ the bus, I would have arrived on time.
- ___________ that it doesn’t rain, we’ll have the party outside.
- ___________ he was to win the lottery, he’d still continue working.
- You should study harder, ___________ you might fail the test.
- ___________ the event of a fire, please follow the emergency exit signs.
- He’ll help you, ___________ you ask him politely.
- ___________ we miss the train, what will we do?
- You won’t get the job ___________ you apply for it.
Answer Key
- In case you get lost, call me immediately.
- I’ll lend you the book on the condition that you promise to return it by next week.
- But for the bus, I would have arrived on time.
- Providing that it doesn’t rain, we’ll have the party outside.
- Even if he were to win the lottery, he’d still continue working.
- You should study harder, or else you might fail the test.
- In the event of a fire, please follow the emergency exit signs.
- He’ll help you, so long as you ask him politely.
- Supposing we miss the train, what will we do?
- You won’t get the job unless you apply for it.
Conclusion
These 12 common conditional expressions provide flexible and precise tools for expressing conditions in English. Mastering them will enable you to communicate more effectively in both formal and informal contexts. Practice using them in your conversations and writing to gain fluency and confidence.