TYPE 2 IF CONDITIONAL

 

Type 2 conditional sentence  or second conditional is a conditional sentence  that is used when the result / consequence of the condition has no or little chance of being realized because the condition cannot be fulfilled in the present (present unreal situation) or condition it is difficult to happen in the future.

The condition is in the subordinate clause with the subordinate conjunction "if", while the result / consequence is in the main clause .

Function

The type 2 conditional refers to an unlikely or hypothetical condition and its probable result. These sentences are not based on the actual situation. In type 2 conditional sentences, the time is now or any time and the situation is hypothetical.

Examples

• If the weather wasn't so bad, we would go to the park. (But the weather is bad so we can't go.)
• If I was the Queen of England, I would give everyone a chicken. (But I am not the Queen.)
• If you really loved me, you would buy me a diamond ring.
• If I knew where she lived, I would go and see her.
• It is correct, and very common, to say "if I were" instead of "if I was" (subjunctive mood).

Examples

• If I were taller, I would buy this dress.
• If I were 20, I would travel the world.
• If I were you, I would give up smoking.
• If I were a plant, I would love the rain.

In type 2 conditional sentences, you can also use modals in the main clause instead of "would" to express the degree of certainty, permission, or a recommendation about the outcome.

Examples

• We might buy a larger house if we had more money
• He could go to the concert if you gave him your ticket.
• If he called me, I couldn't hear.