Theme: Conditionals. Group: 914-22 fio: Polvonniyazov Azamat

Mixed Conditional Sentences
Mixed conditional sentences are not considered one of the four types because these mix the second and third conditionals into one statement. It can follow one of two patterns:

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  If + past perfect, modal + base.
  
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  If + simple past, would/could present perfect.
  

These sentences present an unreal condition that occurred in the past or will occur in the future and connect that condition with an imaginary potential result. Here are some examples:

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  If I had finished my degree, I would be a teacher now.
  
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  If it had rained earlier this week, the plants would be alive.
  
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  If you were kinder, you would have made more friends.
  
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  If you worked harder, you would have gotten a promotion last year.
  

Categorizing Conditional Sentences
In addition to the four main types of conditionals, these sentences can be labeled “real” or “unreal” based on whether or not their meaning is possible. In zero and first conditionals, the meaning is always possible, so these are real.
However, second, third, and mixed conditionals typically are hypothetical situations or are about past events that the writer can’t change. This makes them impossible, which means they are “unreal.” The typical reason to make an unreal conditional sentence is not to state what will happen but rather to make a point.
Exceptions to the Conditional Sentences Rules
In English grammar, exceptions are common, and conditional sentences fall into this category.
First, you can use the simple future tense in the if-clause in one instance. If the action in the if-clause will take place after the action that occurs in the main clause, the simple future tense is appropriate. Here is an example:

• 
  If it will calm you down, I will tell you how to stay safe in a thunderstorm.
  
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  If it will help with the discomfort, I will wear my leg brace when I go hiking.
  

Because the actions of calming the listener down or easing the discomfort only happen if the actions of telling about safety or wearing the leg brace occur, then future perfect tense applies.
Second, if the conditional sentence uses “were to” in the if-clause, it indicates that the main conditional clause is a particularly bad scenario. This changes the verb tense and also adds emphasis to the sentence. Here are some examples:

• 
  If she were to call in sick, she would get laid off.
  
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  If the dog were to bite the neighbor, he would have to be taken to the shelter.