General English Level 4 Version 2.1 © 2004 acl Pty Ltd GELEV4 Unit 03 Topic 03.doc Examples Listen to the examples. 1. If I had a car, I'd drive you to the airport. But I don't have a car. Sorry! 2. You would feel better if you did more exercise. You need to come to the gym with me. 3. She would be very happy if you bought her that dress. 4. If he went to Japan, he wouldn't understand anything. He needs to study Japanese. 5. We'd come if we weren't busy. We have to work next Sunday. 6. If they flew, they would get there quicker. But they want to save money so they are going to drive. Information 1. Steve says: Well, if I were you, I'd speak to Jenny at the council… In the if clause of the second conditional we sometimes use were instead of was, especially after I. This is correct grammar. However, in everyday conversation it is okay to use was - "If I was you...", " If I was asked..." Examples Look at these examples. 1. If I were the president I would spend more money on education. 2. If she were older she would know better. 3. If I were asked for my advice, I would tell her to move her class. 2. Steve says: Hey, have you thought about teaching two classes? If you taught two classes, you could have one at the new centre and … Steve talks about what Jin Hee would be able to do. In the main clause of the second conditional we can use could + verb. could = would be able to. Examples 1. If I had more time I could help you. 2. If she moved to the city she could get a better job. 96