conditional

A conditional sentence is a hypothetical (GGBB p. 689). Greek has first, second, and third class conditions.

1. A first class condition uses ει in the protasis.
2. A second class condition also uses ει but has αν in the apodosis.
3. A third class condition uses εαν in the protasis.

A first class condition assumes the truth of the protasis.

• Look for ει in the protasis + any mood in the apodosis.

A second class condition assumes the protasis to be false.

• Look for ει in the protasis + indicative mood and αν in the apodosis.

A third class condition isn’t sure about the protasis.

• Look for εαν and subjunctive mood in the protasis + any mood in the apodosis.