Second Conditional Grammar Explanation and Practice

Second Conditional: Unreal Possibility

If+subject+past tense verb, subject+would+base verb.
                                         or
Subject+would+base verb...if+subject+past tense verb

We use the second conditional in 3 different ways:

1. To say what is impossible or unlikely.

Example: If we had class this week, we would have a BIG party! (This is impossible because the Governor has closed schools until May 1st )

*By using the second conditional, I'm telling the listener that I don't think it's possible.

2. Giving advice

We give advice using the second conditional by saying "If I were you, I would...

This is an unreal condition because I am not you.

Examples: If I were you, I would wash my hands.

                  If I were you, I would visit Yellowstone National Park.

3. Just for fun!

Use the second conditional to imagine a different future.

Examples: If I had a million dollars, I would hire a chef.

                    If I could go back in time, I would learn another language as a child.

These are impossible situations, but fun to think about.

*Using Might and Could

Might or could can replace “would” in the second conditional. When these words are used, it can have a slight change of meaning:

• would = impossible or unlikely
• might = unlikely but possible
• could = ability (would be able to)

Grammar Explanation Video: https://www.grammar.cl/english/if-i-were-you.htm

Practice Exercises

https://www.learnenglishfeelgood.com/grammar-secondconditional2.html

https://www.ego4u.com/en/cram-up/grammar/conditional-sentences/type-2/exercises?02

https://test-english.com/grammar-points/b1/first-and-second-conditionals/