Conjunction 如果...就

This pattern works by setting up a "deal." The first part starts with 如果 (rúguǒ), which means "if." This introduces a scenario that might happen. The second part uses 就 (jiù), which acts like "then." It tells us the outcome of that scenario. Unlike English, where we often skip the word "then," Chinese really loves keeping the 就 there. It acts like a verbal glue. It sticks the consequence to the condition. Without 就, the sentence can feel a bit naked or unfinished. Imagine it like a light switch. If you flip the switch (如果), then the light turns on (就). It is a simple cause-and-effect relationship that keeps your conversations flowing logically.

1. 1Building this sentence is like stacking blocks. Just follow these four simple steps:
2. 2Start with 如果 (rúguǒ) to set the stage.
3. 3State your condition (e.g., you are tired, it rains, the food is late).
4. 4Add the subject of the second part (like 我, 我们, or 他).
5. 5Drop in 就 (jiù) followed by the result.
6. 6Here is the basic blueprint: 如果 + [Condition], [Subject] + 就 + [Result].
7. 7For example: 如果 + 下雨 (Condition), 我们 + 就 + 不往外走 (Result). "If it rains, we won't go out."
8. 8Wait, where does 就 go? This is the tricky part. In English, we say "Then I will go." In Chinese, we say "I then will go." The 就 almost always sits after the person or thing you are talking about in the second half. It’s like the subject’s little sidekick.

You will use this pattern constantly. Here are some real-world moments where it shines:

• Ordering Food: You’re at a spicy hotpot restaurant. You tell the waiter: 如果你放太多辣椒，我就不吃了 (If you put too much chili, I won't eat it). This saves your taste buds!
• Asking Directions: You’re lost in Shanghai. You ask: 如果我走这条路，就到外滩吗？ (If I take this road, will I get to the Bund?).
• Work & Interviews: You’re discussing a schedule. 如果你明天有空，我们就见面谈 (If you are free tomorrow, then we will meet and talk). It sounds professional and clear.
• Shopping: You’re bargaining at a market. 如果便宜一点，我就买两个 (If it’s a bit cheaper, I’ll buy two). It is the ultimate negotiation tactic.

Basically, whenever life involves a choice or a condition, this is your go-to phrase.

Don't use this for things that are 100% certain or general laws of nature. If you drop a glass, it breaks. For those "whenever" situations, Chinese often uses 只要...就 (as long as) or just a simple sentence. Also, avoid using 如果 if you are asking a "What if?" question without a result. For example, if you just want to say "What if he doesn't come?", you would use 要是他不来呢？ instead.

Another "no-go" zone? Don't use it when the two events aren't actually related. If you say "If I eat bread, he goes to the gym," it sounds confusing. The second part must be a direct result of the first. Otherwise, your listener will be waiting for a logical connection that isn't there. Think of it like a grammar traffic light; don't go unless the path is clear!

Everyone makes mistakes, even the pros! Here are the big ones to watch out for:

• Forgetting the 就: This is the #1 mistake. Many learners say 如果下雨，我不去 (If it rains, I don't go). While people might understand you, it sounds a bit "choppy." Add that 就 for a smooth, native sound.
• Putting 就 before the Subject: You might want to say 如果你有钱，就我买 (If you have money, then I buy). Nope! It should be 我就买. The subject comes first, then the 就 follows.
• Using 那么 (nàme) instead of 就: 那么 also means "then," but it’s used differently. 那么 is usually for starting a new sentence or summarizing. In an "If... then" structure, 就 is the champion.
• The Double "If": You don't need to repeat 如果 twice. Once at the start is plenty. Your brain might want to double up, but resist the urge!

You might hear people say 要是 (yàoshi) instead of 如果. They mean the exact same thing! 要是 is just a bit more casual. Think of 如果 as a button-down shirt and 要是 as your favorite t-shirt. Both are great; one is just more relaxed.

You might also see 的话 (de huà) at the end of the first part. 如果你有空的话... (If you have time...). This 的话 literally means "the words of." It adds a little soft padding to your sentence. It makes the "if" part sound even more hypothetical and polite. If 如果 is the bread of your sandwich, 的话 is like the crust. You don't *need* it, but some people prefer it!