Third and mixed conditionals

The third conditional imagines a different past. Because the past cannot change, we often use it for regrets, criticism or relief. Mixed conditionals combine two time frames: an imaginary past condition with a present result, or an imaginary present situation with a past result.

In the first example, we missed the train. In the second, Tomás didn't take the job, and that still has a result today: he isn't in Toronto. In the third, a permanent quality (I'm not very organised) explains something that went wrong in the past.

Other modals and short forms

You can replace would with could or might to talk about ability or possibility. In speech, had and would both shorten to 'd, so listen carefully: If I'd known, I'd have helped. The first 'd is had; the second is would.

• If Amara hadn't reminded me, I might have missed my appointment.
• We could have won if our goalkeeper hadn't been ill.
• If Daniel spoke Portuguese, he would have understood the guide.
• If I hadn't stayed up so late, I wouldn't feel so tired now.