Which term is the main clause in a conditional sentence?

• A. Apodosis
• B. Realia
• C. Metalanguage
• D. Phatic speech

Answer: (A)

In conditional sentences, the part that expresses the result or consequence is called the apodosis. The other part, which states the condition, is the protasis. So in a sentence like If it rains, the picnic will be canceled, the apodosis is “the picnic will be canceled.” The terms listed elsewhere refer to different concepts: realia are tangible objects used in teaching meaning, metalanguage is language about language, and phatic speech consists of small talk to maintain social connection. Therefore, the term that denotes the main clause expressing the result is apodosis.