8.27 modals and imperatives

When you are using a conditional clause, you often use a modal in the main clause.

You always use a modal in the main clause when you are talking about a situation which does not exist.

• If you weren't here, she would get rid of me in no time.
• If anybody had asked me, I could have told them what happened.

Modals are explained in paragraphs 4.95 to 4.262.

Conditional clauses are often used in imperative structures.

• If you dry your washing outdoors, wipe the line first.
• If it's four o'clock in the morning, don't expect to them to be pleased to see you.

Imperative structures are explained in paragraphs 4.4 and 4.31 to 4.35.