Conditional sentences

Question 1

Basic pattern for conditional sentences

Answer 1

‘If X happens, (then) Y happens’
Simple present tense conditionals translate naturally with ει
e.g. ει τουτο λεγει, σοφως
If he speaks, he speaks wisely

Question 2

Conditonal sentences: future open

Answer 2

Condition reffering to the future is naturally ‘indefinite’.
Subjunctive (present or aorist, determined by aspect) + εαν
e.g. εαν τουτο ειπη, σοφως ερει
If he says this (in the future), he will speak wisely

Question 3

Protasis

Answer 3

The ‘if’ half of any conditional sentence
negative: μη

Question 4

Apodosis

Answer 4

The main clause - protasis usually comes before the apodosis, but can come after it.
Negative: ου

Question 5

Conditional sentences: past closed

Answer 5

Condition reffering to the past whose outcome is already a known fact.
‘If X had happened, Y would have happened’
Protasis: ει + aorist indicative
Apodosis: αν + aorist indicative (αν gives the sense of would have)
e.g. ει τουτο ειπε, σοφως αν ειπεν
If he had said this, he would have spoken wisely

Question 6

The verb to be in conditonals:

Answer 6

Because the verb ‘to be’ has no aorist, it’s imperfect form is used where an aorist is required.
e.g. ει σοφος ην, αν ειπεν
If he had been wise, he would have spoken wisely

Question 7

Summary table of conditionals

Answer 7

Future open (if X happens [in the future]), Y would happen)
Protasis: εαν + subjunctive
Apodosis: future indicative

Past closed (if X had happened, Y would have happened)
Protasis: ει + aorist indicative
Apodosis: aorist indicative + αν