English Grammar Guide


The Second Conditional


Usage - The Second Conditional

The second conditional is for hypothetical situations or very unexpected situations. The dependent clause uses the past simple verb (V2), and the main clause uses would.

  • Hypothetical Situations
  • Very Unexpected Situations
  • Cause ➤ Effect

Grammar - The Second Conditional

The dependent clause can come before or after the main clause.

  • If + DEPENDENT CLAUSE + , + MAIN CLAUSE
  • If + PAST SIMPLE + , ... would ...
  • MAIN CLAUSE + if + DEPENDENT CLAUSE
  • ... would ... if + PAST SIMPLE
  • would → 'd

⚠ Be Careful!

  • The second conditional uses the past simple but it is not the past. Also, it is not the present and it is not the real future.
  • We use the second conditional for imagining fantasies, ideas and dreams.

Examples - The Second Conditional

DEPENDENTMAIN CLAUSE
If I found a new job,I would make more money.
If UFOs attacked,I'd run.

Examples - The Second Conditional

MAINDEPENDENT CLAUSE
I'd make more moneyif I found a new job.
I would runif UFOs attacked.
Symbols & Abbreviations
PAST SIMP.Past Simple

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See Also

01) The Zero Conditional

02) The First Conditional

03) The Second Conditional: If I were you

04) The First Conditional: Conjunctions




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