Linking clauses by subordination
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Expressing condition | page 2 of 5 |
Using if
If is the most common way of expressing conditions. Generally the if clause comes before the main clause:
If you need advice on cars for disabled drivers or those with special needs, try the new Ability Car Guide. (Bank of English)
Sometimes, though, the author may wish to emphasise the information in the if clause. This can be done by putting the if clause second:
All the main Royal palaces lack full-size sprinkler systems. The taxpayer would pick up the bill if fire swept through Buckingham Palace. (Bank of English)
In English (unlike Chinese), if in the subordinate clause is not usually
balanced by then in the main clause 
.
Introduction
Using if
