In English grammar, the first conditional is used to talk about possible future events or situations. It consists of two clauses: the “if” clause (introducing the condition) and the main clause (showing the result). When using the first conditional with negatives, we need to pay attention to the structure of the sentences to convey the intended meaning effectively.
Let’s take a look at some examples of first conditional sentences with negatives:
First Conditional Examples with Negatives
1. If you don’t study, you won’t pass the exam.
This sentence shows the consequence of not studying for the exam. The negative form “don’t” is used in the “if” clause, and “won’t” is used in the main clause to indicate the negative result of not studying.
2. If it doesn’t rain tomorrow, we will have a picnic.
In this example, the negative form “doesn’t” is used in the “if” clause to express the condition of no rain. The main clause uses “will” to show the positive result of having a picnic if it doesn’t rain.
3. If she doesn’t call me back, I will leave a voicemail.
Here, the negative form “doesn’t” is used in the “if” clause to indicate the condition of not receiving a call back. The main clause uses “will” to show the action of leaving a voicemail if she doesn’t call back.
4. If they don’t hurry, they will miss the bus.
In this sentence, the negative form “don’t” is used in the “if” clause to talk about the consequence of not hurrying. The main clause uses “will” to show the negative result of missing the bus.
Overall, using the first conditional with negatives allows us to discuss potential future outcomes based on specific conditions not being met. By understanding the structure and examples of these sentences, we can effectively communicate the intended meaning in conversations and written communication.