Will After If

When Can I Use "Will" After "If"?

Let’s look at the difference between conditionals and object clauses — and when "will" is okay after "if."

❌ 1. In Conditional Sentences → No “will” after “if”

In first conditionals, we use the present simple after if, even when talking about the future.

❌ If it will rain, we’ll stay home.

✅ If it rains, we’ll stay home.(“If” introduces a condition; the result uses “will”)

>>>About conditionals <<<

✅ 2. In Object Clauses → “Will” is OK!

Sometimes, “if” introduces an object clause, not a condition.In these cases, “will” is correct because it’s part of the object of the sentence.

✅ I don’t know if she will come.

✅ Can you tell me if he will be there?

✅ We’re wondering if it will rain tomorrow.

🔍 Here, “if” = “whether” → it’s not a condition but a question word inside a sentence.

Verbs Followed by Object Clauses (with “if + will”)

These verbs are used when we want to ask, say, think, know, etc. something about the future. The clause answers “what?” – so it’s an object clause, not a condition.

📚 Common Verbs

Verb	Example
ask	Can you ask if she will join us?
wonder	I wonder if it will snow tomorrow.
know	Do you know if he will come to the meeting?
find out	I’ll find out if they will attend.
tell	Please tell me if she will be late.
say	He didn’t say if he will bring anyone.
see	Let’s see if they will agree to our plan.
check	I’ll check if the shop will be open on Sunday.
decide	She hasn’t decided if she will move abroad.
explain	He didn’t explain if he will stay longer.
remember	Do you remember if they will need a lift?

✅ 3. When “will” expresses willingness or refusal

This is a special exception inside a conditional:

✅ If you will help me, I’ll be grateful.(= If you are willing to help me)

✅ If he won’t cooperate, we’ll call the manager.(= If he refuses to cooperate)

>>> if + will/would <<<

Summary Table

Situation	Can I use “will” after “if”?	Example
First conditional (real future)	❌ No	If it rains, we will cancel.
Object clause (if = whether)	✅ Yes	I wonder if she will come.
Willingness / refusal	✅ Yes	If you will wait, I’ll join you.

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