Chapter 20

Chapter 20

1. True in the present future

   • In conditional sentences that express true, factual ideas in the present/ future, the simple present (not the simple future) is used un the if-clause. The result clause has various possible verb forms.

2. Untrue (contrary to Fact) in the present

   • In truth, I don't teach this class. In truth, he is not here right now. In truth, I am not you. Note: Were is used for both singular and plural subjects. Was (with I, he, she, it) is sometimes used in informal. Speech: If I was you, I'd accept their invitation

3. Untrue in the past

   • In truth, they did not study. Therefore, they failed the exam. In In truth, I slipped on the stairs, I broke my arm. Note: The auxiliary verbs are almost always contracted in speech, if you'd told me, I would've helped you.

4. Omitting if

   • With were, had (past perfect), and should, sometimes if is omitted and the subject and verb are inverted. Were I you = If I were you.

5. Implied Conditions

   • Often the if-clause is implied not stated. Conditional verbs are still used in the result clause. In (a): the implied condition: if I hadn't had to study.

6. Using as If/ As though

   • Notice in (a): like is followed by a noun object. Notice in (b) and (c): as if and as though are followed by a clause. Notice in (d): like is followed by a clause. This use of like is common in informal English, but is not generally considered appropriate in formal English; as if or as though is preferred (a), (b), and (d) all have the same meaning.

7. Verb Forms Following wish

   • I wish (that) she would tell me. I wish he were going to be here. I wish she could come tomorrow