Learn how to use third conditional sentences in English! In this blog post, we will explain their structure, meaning, and common uses. The third conditional helps express past situations that did not happen and their possible outcomes. Understanding this grammar rule will improve your English fluency and help you speak more naturally.
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Definition of Third Conditional Sentences
Like the other conditionals, a Conditional Sentences Type 3 sentence consists of two clauses: an ‘if‘ clause and the main clause. We use different verb forms in each part of Conditional Sentences Type 3:
Third Conditional Structure:
IF + Past Perfect, Subject + would/could/might + have + Past Participle.
Third-conditional examples:
- If I had gotten a gold medal, I would have been happy.
- If I had met Susan last week, I would have given her the book.
- If the weather had been good, we would have gone water-skiing.
If the ‘if‘ clause comes first, a comma is usually used. If the ‘if‘ clause comes second, there is no need for a comma.
For example:
- We would have gone water skiing if the weather had been good.
Note also that Conditional Sentences Type 3 forms can be contracted.
For example:
- Full form: If you had gotten up earlier, you would have caught the earlier train.
- Contracted form: If you‘d gotten up earlier, you would‘ve caught the earlier train.
How to Use Conditional Sentences, Type 3
Conditional Sentences Type 3 is used to talk about things that did not happen in the past. It is often used to express criticism or regret.
For example:
- If Mark had come on time, he would have met them. (Regret)
- If Charlene hadn’t been so careless, she wouldn’t have lost all her money. (Criticism)
- If you hadn’t lied, you wouldn’t have ended up in prison. (Criticism)
- If you had asked her, she would have helped you. (Regret)
Third Conditional Sentences Image
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