Second Conditional – If + Would

Free A2 Second Conditional quiz with explanations. Practice unreal situations, dreams & hypothetical scenarios using “If I were… I would…”. Ideal for beginners!

Second Conditional If Would Exercises

We use the Second Conditional to talk about things that aren’t real or that we imagine will happen in the future. We use it when we think of something that isn’t true right now or isn’t very likely to happen.

1. Structure

There are two parts to a second conditional sentence: the “If” clause and the main clause.

• If clause: if plus past simple
• Main clause: would plus the base verb
• Example:
  • If I had a bigger car, I would travel more.
  • The meaning is imaginary. I do not have a bigger car now.

2. When do we use it

We use the Second Conditional to talk about:

• Unreal or imaginary situations
• Things that are possible in theory but not true right now
• Dreams, wishes or ideas about the future that are not likely

Examples:

• If she lived near the beach, she would swim every day.
• If we won a free trip, we would visit Canada.
• If he studied more, he would get better grades.

3. Important notes

• Use past simple in the If clause, even if the meaning is about the present or future.
• Use would in the main clause, not will.

Example:

• If it rained today, we would stay at home.
• (Not: If it rained today, we will stay)

You can change the order of the clauses.

• Example:
  We would buy a new house if we earned more money.

4. Common verbs used

• have
• live
• go
• be
• win
• study

Example sentences:

• If I were you, I would try the new restaurant.
• If they had more free time, they would learn Italian.

5. Why this form is useful

The Second Conditional helps you be polite, talk about your dreams, and think about other options. It is very common in everyday English, especially when people are talking to each other.

You will feel more sure of yourself when you use English in real life if you practice this structure a lot.

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