Meaning
Used to express a condition under which something will happen.
Cultural Background
In Spain, this is used frequently in informal social planning. Mexicans often use 'siempre y cuando' as a very common alternative. Argentines might use 'con que' for a more casual, punchy version. In professional settings, 'a condición de que' is preferred over 'con tal de que'.
Subjunctive Trigger
Always remember that 'con tal de que' is a trigger for the subjunctive mood. If you use the indicative, it will sound incorrect to native speakers.
Infinitive Shortcut
If you are the subject of both parts of the sentence, drop the 'que' and use the infinitive. It sounds much more natural!
Meaning
Used to express a condition under which something will happen.
Subjunctive Trigger
Always remember that 'con tal de que' is a trigger for the subjunctive mood. If you use the indicative, it will sound incorrect to native speakers.
Infinitive Shortcut
If you are the subject of both parts of the sentence, drop the 'que' and use the infinitive. It sounds much more natural!
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct verb form.
Lo haré con tal de que tú me ________ (ayudar).
Subjunctive is required after 'con tal de que'.
Choose the correct phrase to complete the sentence.
Comeré pizza ______ sea vegetariana.
It sets a condition for the action.
Complete the response.
A: ¿Vienes a la fiesta? B: ________ (I'll go as long as you go).
Correct use of the phrase and subjunctive.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesLo haré con tal de que tú me ________ (ayudar).
Subjunctive is required after 'con tal de que'.
Comeré pizza ______ sea vegetariana.
It sets a condition for the action.
A: ¿Vienes a la fiesta? B: ________ (I'll go as long as you go).
Correct use of the phrase and subjunctive.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, it is perfectly acceptable in professional correspondence.
Yes, because the condition is hypothetical or future-oriented.
Related Phrases
siempre y cuando
synonymprovided that
a condición de que
synonymon the condition that
con que
specialized formas long as
si
contrastif
