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HSK 2.0 Level 4+ HSK 3.0 Level 4+ 6 min read

Condition Chains

Build longer conditional sentences without losing the relationship.

Pattern

如果/只要/只有/即使 + result connector

Match each condition word to the logic of the result.

如果明天下雨，我们就改时间。

When to use Condition Chains

HSK 4 condition chains often combine possibility, sufficiency, necessity, or concession. The result connector changes with the logic: 就, 才, 也.

只要你提前告诉我，我就能安排。

As long as you tell me in advance, I can arrange it.

即使很忙，我也会参加。

Even if I am busy, I will still participate.

只有准备好了，才可以开始。

Only if preparation is done can we begin.

如果有问题，就马上联系我。

If there is a problem, contact me immediately.

Common traps

  • Do not use 才 after every condition; reserve it for necessity.
  • 即使 usually needs 也 or 还 in the result.
  • Long condition chains need punctuation and clear clause boundaries.

Targeted drill

Practice this exact pattern before moving on.

明天下雨，我们就改时间。

Missing grammar piece
Meanings
if