B1 · Lesson 7 · 20 min
Real future conditions
In this lesson
- I can use the first conditional for possible future results.
- I can use unless and as long as to describe conditions clearly.
Grammar in context
Maya is planning a day trip with her cousin on Saturday. They will cycle to the lake if the forecast is dry. Her cousin agrees, as long as they leave early. They will take the bus unless the bikes are ready.
Which verb form follows if, unless and as long as when the result is in the future?
First conditional: a real future possibility
Use the first conditional for a possible future situation and its likely result. Use if plus the present simple in the condition clause and will plus the base verb in the result clause. The if clause can come first or second. Do not normally use will after if when you are stating a condition. Use a comma when the if clause comes first.
- If the train is late, we will call the hotel.
- I will make dinner if I finish work early.
Unless means if not
Unless usually means if not and introduces a condition that would stop something happening. Use unless plus a present form, not usually unless plus a negative verb, because the two negatives can make the meaning unclear. The main clause can use will for a future result. Use if, rather than unless, when you mean a positive requirement or permission.
- We will miss the start unless we leave now.
- Unless Dan brings his pass, he will not be able to enter the building.
As long as: an important condition
Use as long as to mean only if or provided that. It shows that a condition must be true before the result can happen. In future sentences, use the present simple after as long as, even when the result uses will. This phrase often appears in agreements, instructions and promises.
- You can borrow my laptop as long as you return it tonight.
- As long as the café is open, we will meet there.
Common mistakes
Compare the incorrect and corrected forms.
Avoid
If it will rain, we will stay inside.
Use
If it rains, we will stay inside.
Use the present simple after if in a real future condition.
Avoid
Unless you do not hurry, you will be late.
Use
Unless you hurry, you will be late.
Unless already has a negative meaning, so an extra negative can make the meaning unclear.
Put it into practice
Try the exercises, write your own examples and check your understanding.