Second Conditional

Rule

• • The if-clause (condition) uses the simple past tense (e.g., were or was). For example: If I were rich.
  • The main clause (result) uses would + base form of the verb (e.g., would buy). For example: I would buy a house.

Usage

• • We use it to talk about things that are unlikely to happen, like If I won the lottery.
  • It's used for giving advice on imaginary situations, such as If you were me.
  • It's also used to express regret about something that didn't happen, like If I had studied harder (though this is more commonly Third Conditional).

Examples

• If I were you, I would take the job offer.
• If it snowed tomorrow, we would go skiing.
• I would travel the world if I had enough money.
• If she were here, she would love this party.
• If I won the contest, I would buy a new car.
• He would be a great leader if he were more confident.

Common Mistakes

• Wrong: If I will be rich, I would buy a yacht. Correct: If I were rich, I would buy a yacht.
• Wrong: If I was you, I would.... Correct: If I were you, I would....
• Wrong: I would go to the party if I will be invited. Correct: I would go to the party if I were invited.

Tip