if

• If — conjonction de subordination très courante qui introduit des propositions conditionnelles. Elle exprime la condition qui doit être remplie pour que la situation de la proposition principale se produise ou soit vraie. Elle est nécessaire pour parler de possibilités, de situations hypothétiques, de conditions réelles et de leurs conséquences.

If is a very common subordinating conjunction used to introduce conditional clauses. It expresses a condition that must be met for the situation in the main clause to happen or be true. It is essential for talking about possibilities, hypothetical situations, real conditions, and consequences.

1. Real / Possible ConditionA2formal

   Used to talk about real or possible situations in the present or future. The if-clause describes a realistic condition, and the main clause shows the likely result. This is the most common use of "if" (first conditional and zero conditional).

   Condition réelle ou possible

   • If it rains tomorrow, we will stay at home.
   • If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
   • If you heat water to 100°C, it boils.
   • Call me if you need any help.
   • If she arrives early, we can start the meeting on time.

2. Hypothetical / Unreal ConditionB1formal

   Used for imaginary or unlikely situations in the present or future, or for situations that are contrary to past facts. The if-clause describes something that is not real or not very probable, and the main clause shows the hypothetical result (second and third conditionals).

   Condition hypothétique / irréelle

   • If I were rich, I would travel around the world.
   • If she knew the answer, she would tell us.
   • If I had studied harder, I would have passed the test.
   • What would you do if you won the lottery?
   • If he hadn't missed the train, he would be here now.

3. Polite Requests and Indirect QuestionsB1formal

   If is often used in polite requests, offers, and indirect questions instead of more direct forms. It softens the sentence and makes it sound more courteous.

   Demandes polies et questions indirectes

   • If you could help me, I would really appreciate it.
   • If you don't mind, could you open the window?
   • I wonder if you have seen my keys.
   • If possible, please send the report by Friday.
   • Let me know if you can come to the party.