GRAMMAR

PART A

Audio 27

Conditionals


Mixed conditionals: They contain various combinations of time periods as present, past or future.

Examples:

a. If you had studied for the test, you would pass it.
                           Past                                                      Present
b. If my car hadn't broken down I would take you to the airport tomorrow.
                                Past                                            Future

More examples

1. If we had brought a compass, we would know where we are.

Let's analyze it:

- If we had brought (Refers to the past)
We didn't bring...
- we would know (Refers to the present)
We don't know...

2. If we hadn´t arranged to go to the mall, I would come to the party next Sunday.

Let's analyze it:

- If we hadn't arranged (Refers to the past)
We didn't arrange...
- I would come...next.. (Refers to the future)
I will come...next...

PART B

Use of "If + words"

Examples:

a. There isn't much, if any, meat in this sandwich — it's a salad.

Meaning: There is little meat in this sandwich

b. I rarely, if ever, watch volleyball matches.

Meaning: Hardly ever watches volleyball

c. She is a born loser if I ever saw one.

Meaning: A horrible way to call someone.

d. You should find my house easily. If not, give me a call and I'll give you directions.

Meaning: Either this way or the other way.

e. See if that pair of pants fits you, if so, you should definetly buy it.

Meaning: If it's true, go on.

f. Henry asked me for a date! As if!

Meaning: An event that is unlikely to happen.