Condition Without ako

A Condition Without Ako

Level 6

A clause beginning with a finite verb followed by li can mean “if.” A following main clause states what happens if that condition is met.

How It Works

Compare Ako zakasniš, pričekat ćemo te with Zakasniš li, pričekat ćemo te. The li construction is particularly useful in concise instructions and written prose. It does not require a question mark.

Put li directly after the finite verb and keep any following clitics in their usual order: Javiš li mi se, poslat ću ti adresu. The initial conditional clause is separated from the main clause by a comma.

Context distinguishes this from a real yes–no question such as Dolaziš li? The construction also differs from English conditional inversion with “had” or “were”: choose the Croatian condition and tense relationship rather than translating that word order mechanically.

Examples (3)

  1. Zatrebaš li pomoć, nazovi me.

    If you need help, call me.

  2. Zakasnimo li, pričekajte nas pred ulazom.

    If we are late, wait for us by the entrance.

  3. Pronađeš li ključ, javi Ani.

    If you find the key, let Ana know.

How It Connects

Tap a pattern to see what it builds on and what it leads to.

Condition Without akoLevel 6A Condition Without Ako

Learn This First

A verb followed by li can express a condition instead of an independent question.

Words in This Pattern