JLPT N4
条件形 (conditional)
If ~
Structure
Verb ば-form
How it works
The 'Ba' conditional form is used to express a necessary condition for a result to occur. It focuses on the hypothetical link: if A happens, then B will follow. It is commonly used for logical outcomes, giving advice, or expressing general truths.
Examples
安ければ、買います。
If it is cheap, I will buy it.
練習すれば、上手になりますよ。
If you practice, you will become good at it.
雨が降らなければ、ハイキングに行きましょう。
If it doesn't rain, let's go hiking.
Common mistakes
Do not use the 'Ba' form followed by a command, request, or expression of will (like ~te kudasai or ~mashou) if the first clause involves an action verb and a specific person.
Tip
To conjugate Group 1 verbs, change the final 'u' sound to an 'e' sound and add 'ba' (e.g., Iku → Ike + ba).
More JLPT N4 grammar
See 条件形 (conditional) in real Japanese
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