Conditional Type 2

What is Conditional Type 2?

We use the Second Conditional to talk about unreal or imaginary situations in the present or future. It is used for things that are unlikely to happen.

If I had a million dollars, I would buy a castle.
(Reality: I do not have a million dollars.)

If I were you, I would accept the job.
(Reality: I am not you. This is used for advice.)

Structure

The structure uses the Past Simple in the "if" clause, but the meaning is present.

IF + Past Simple, ... WOULD + Base Verb

Examples:

• If I won the lottery, I would travel the world.
• If he lived closer, we would see him more often.
• If they didn't have to work, they would join us.

You can reverse the order. If the "If" clause comes second, do not use a comma:

WOULD + Base Verb ... IF + Past Simple

I would travel the world if I won the lottery.
We would see him more often if he lived closer.

Type 1 vs. Type 2

The difference is about probability. Type 1 is real/possible. Type 2 is imaginary/unlikely.

Type 1 (Real):
If I have money, I will buy a car.
(It is possible I will get money.)

Type 2 (Unreal):
If I had money, I would buy a car.
(I don't have money now, so it's imaginary.)

Type 1 (Real):
If she studies, she will pass.
(She has time to study.)

Type 2 (Unreal):
If she studied, she would pass.
(She is not studying currently.)

Special Rule: "Were" instead of "Was"

In formal English, when using the verb to be in the Second Conditional, we use were for all subjects (I, he, she, it).

If I were rich, I would help the poor.
(Not: If I was rich...)

If she were here, she would know what to do.
(Not: If she was here...)

Note: In casual conversation, many people say "If I was...", but "If I were..." is considered grammatically correct.

Variations: Could and Might

We can use could (would be able to) or might (would perhaps) instead of would.

If I had a car, I could drive you home.
(Ability)

If we played better, we might win the game.
(Possibility)