Using como as "if" (subordinate conditional clause)

Question 1

In Spanish, the conjunction “como” is used to introduce a clause that expresses a condition for the action in the main clause to be fulfilled.

Answer 1

The conditional clause with como can be placed right at the beginning or after the main clause.

The conditional clause with como can be placed right at the beginning or after the main clause.

Note that como in conditional clauses only allows El Subjuntivo, not El Indicativo.

“Te vas a arrepentir como no vienes ahora mismo.”

When we use como in conditional clauses, the context is generally that of a warning, threat or prediction.

Here are more sentences:

You may find the conjunction como used with El Indicativo in subordinate clauses, but the meaning of the clause will be different. In this case, the clause will be introducing a cause, not a condition.

Question 2

If they offer me the job I will have a big party.

Answer 2

Como me ofrezcan el trabajo voy a hacer una gran fiesta.

Question 3

If you don’t pass the exam, I won’t take you to McDonalds. (a warning)

Answer 3

Como no apruebes el examen, no te llevo a McDonalds.

Question 4

I will call my big brother if you don’t leave me alone. (a threat)

Answer 4

Voy a llamar a mi hermano mayor como no me dejéis tranquilo.

Question 5

If it rains now, all the clothes hanging in the patio will get wet. (a prediction)

Answer 5

Como llueva ahora, toda la ropa colgada en el patio se mojará.

Question 6

(Because/Since I left work late, I couldn’t go to the cinema with my girlfriend.)

Answer 6

Como salí del trabajo tarde, no pude ir al cine con mi novia.”

Question 7

You are going to regret it if you don’t come right now.

Answer 7

Te vas a arrepentir como no vengas ahora mismo.