How do I form a conditional clause?

To form a conditional clause you need to start with the word 'si' - if, then make sure that you are using the right tenses for the rest of the sentence!

1. Si + present + future (e.g. si je vais, il ira aussi - if I go, he will go too).

2. Si + imperfect + conditional (e.g. si j'allais, il irait aussi - if I went, he would go too).

3. Si + pluperfect + conditional perfect (e.g. si j'étais allée, il serait allé aussi - if I had gone, he would have gone too).

These look very impressive in a written exam as they are quite complex, using a variety of tenses so try to slip one or two into an essay if you can to gain extra marks!

EM
Answered by Elle M. French tutor

3651 Views

See similar French A Level tutors

Related French A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is the French subjunctive mood constructed?


Expliquez le problème du réchauffement climatique.


How would I introduce and explain the idea of sustainable living in French?


Qu'est-ce que tu vas faire pendant les vacances ?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning