Second Conditional
The Second Conditional describes hypothetical or unreal situations in the present or future. It is used for imaginary scenarios or to give advice politely. The structure is: If + past simple, would + base verb. Note that 'were' is often used instead of 'was' in formal English.
WHEN TO USE
Use for imaginary, hypothetical, or unlikely situations in the present or future. Also used politely when giving advice ('If I were you, I would...').
STRUCTURE
If + past simple, would + base verbIf I had more money, I would travel the world.
If + past simple, wouldn't + base verbIf she liked spicy food, she wouldn't avoid it.
What would S + do if + past simple?What would you do if you lost your job?
SIGNAL WORDS
- if
- would
- could
- might
- imagine if
- what if
EXAMPLES
If I had more money, I would travel the world.
What would you do if you lost your job?
If I were you, I would apologize to her.
She would be happier if she had more free time.
If I spoke French, I would apply for that job in Paris.
COMMON MISTAKES
If I would have more money, I would travel.
If I had more money, I would travel.
In the if-clause, use past simple — NOT 'would'
If I was you, I would leave.
If I were you, I would leave.
In formal English, use 'were' for all subjects in 2nd conditional, especially 'I were you'
Tip
The key to second conditional: BOTH things are unreal/unlikely right now. 'If I had a million dollars' = I don't have it. 'I would buy a house' = I'm not buying one. It's all imaginary!