Another "If clause"

In both cases, the "if" refers to a conditional  state. The difference is in the tense of the verb. In the first example, has is present conditional. The second example should read "If he had money, he would buy a car." This example has the verb in past conditional. In this case, it really has nothing to do with the "if" as much as it does with making sure the verb tense is parallel.

FioraVisirel wrote:

In both cases, the "if" refers to a conditional  state. The difference is in the tense of the verb. In the first example, has is present conditional. The second example should read "If he had money, he would buy a car." This example has the verb in past conditional. In this case, it really has nothing to do with the "if" as much as it does with making sure the verb tense is parallel.

Exactly!

When we use “if” in a hypothetical situation, we must used [had] or [were] in conjunction with [would] to form a “conditional” structure. i.e.  “If I had money, I wouldn’t be living in this crummy apartment” But the fact is I don’t,

 

“If he were doing his homework, he would have found out more about the competition”. But the fact was, he wasn’t doing his research. 

 

“if I were rich, I would buy you anything you want”. But I am poor, so it’s not real.  

 

However, there are other “if” applications that are exceptions to this rule.  It’s also correct to say “If it rains tomorrow, the picnic will be cancelled”.  In this context, we are anticipating something which is likely to happen.

So the present condition is allowed.

 

 

Anonymous wrote:

In what circumstances do we use will after if in a conditional state?

If you don’t stop teasing me, you will suffer the consequences.

If the company sale doesn’t make the projected number, I can see drastic changes coming.

If you don’t turn down your music, I will do that for you.

 

I think of this type of usage as “cause and effect” condition, with the first part being the cause and latter part as the effect which are anticipated or expected to happen and  you may use the present form of the verb and aux. words in spite of their “conditional nature”.  

  Hi,


     Thanks for responding. I did not mean first conditional. I meant will after if (if you will..., then I will...). I know sometimes we can use it that way but I don't recall in what circumstances.