Document: Conditional 2

Conditional 2 –The Present Unreal Conditional

The Present Unreal Conditional (Conditional 2) is used to talk about what you would generally do in
imaginary situations. The situation is contrary to the reality.

Form:

If + past simple = would/could/might + infinitive of the verb

KEEP IN MIND!

 If I were ...
Only one irregular verb exists for the conditional: the verb “to be”
In the Present Unreal Conditional, the past tense form "were" of the verb “to be” is always used,
for all persons. However, in everyday conversation, "was" is often used.

Example: If he were French, he would live in Paris.

I would buy that computer if it were cheaper.

I would buy that computer if it was cheaper.

Not Correct (But often said in conversation.)

1 Conditional 2 –The Present Unreal Conditional