The Second Conditional

The 2nd conditional is also called the present unreal conditional because it is used for hypothetical situations in the present.

It is the most common conditional in English, and it is often used in speaking.


2nd Conditional Structure

If + Simple Past + Modal + Base Verb

Examples:

• If I had more money, I would buy a car.
• If he were 16, he could drive.

2nd Conditional Uses 

1.  Unreal situations in the present

• If I were the teacher, I would make class shorter.

2.  Imagined events

• If I were rich, I would buy a private jet.

 

3.  Impossible present situations

• I would go to the party, if I didn’t have to work.

Was vs. Were

In conditional sentences with "if" the verb "be" changes. Use “were” for all subjects. This includes all pronouns, even "I", "he", or "she".

Examples:

• If I were rich, I would not work.
• If he were older, he would understand.

This is proper English, and may not always be used in conversation.


The 2nd conditional is very common, and you can find it in many English songs. Here are some examples:

Beyonce - If I Were a Boy

The Barenaked Ladies - If I Had a Million Dollars

Katie Melua - If You Were a Sailboat

Lyle Lovett - If I Had a Boat


Would you like to try some quizzes and tests on the 2nd conditional? Try these online tests:

Second Conditional Test

Second Conditional Test 2 

Would you like you learn more about the 2nd conditional?  Try this lesson:

Second Conditional Lesson