The Grammar Lab: Second Conditional
Dreams & Imagination
We use the Second Conditional for situations that are not real or impossible in the present or future. (Like winning the lottery or being an animal).
IF + Past Simple, ... WOULD + Verb
ចំណាំ៖ We use the Past Tense to show "distance" from reality, not because it happened in the past.
The Structure
If [Past Tense Condition], [Would Result].
| If I had money, I would buy a car. | (But I don't have money) |
| If she studied, she would pass. | (But she doesn't study) |
| I would fly if I had wings. | (Impossible) |
The "Were" Rule
In Second Conditional, we use WERE for all subjects (I, He, She, It).
| If I were you, I would go. | បើខ្ញុំជាអ្នក... |
| If he were rich, he would travel. | Not "If he was" |
| If she were here, she would help. | Not "If she was" |
Questions
Asking about imaginary situations.
| What would you do if you won the lottery? |
| Where would you live if you moved abroad? |
Dream Flipper
Click to turn Reality into Imagination.
I am not rich.Reality
I don't know the answer.Reality
She doesn't have time.Reality
It is raining.Reality
Quick Check
1. If I _____ a bird, I would fly.
2. If he _____ harder, he would succeed.
3. What would you do if you _____ a ghost?