You have already learned about real conditionals, which are used to talk about possibilities. Unreal conditionals are different. These sentences are used to talk about imaginary events and situations. Unreal conditionals talk about things that are not true in the present. In some cases, they might be true in the future.
Unreal conditionals in the present or future are formed using: If + past, (then) + would + verb
It might seem a bit confusing that you need to use a past tense in the 'if' clause. However, this past tense does not mean that the 'if' clause happens in the past. Instead, it just shows that the event is not real.
You can use the simple past or sometimes the past continuous in these 'if' clauses.
In the main clause, we use the word 'would' because we are making a prediction.
Here are some examples of unreal conditionals in the present or future.
If I were you, I would buy the red one.
If I lost my favourite necklace, I would be heartbroken!
If I had more time, I would do more yoga.
Notice that in unreal conditionals, the verb 'be' becomes 'were' for all subjects, even 'I' and 'he/she/it.' Do not say 'If I was...' Use 'If I were' instead.
You can also use unreal conditionals to ask questions about imaginary situations.
If your dog could talk, what would he say?
If you could be a queen for one day, what would you do?
If you were the principal of your school, what would you change?
Exercise
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