What Would Happen?
Second Conditional
The second, or 'unreal', conditional is used for improbable situations that are purely hypothetical. Use the second conditional when imagining various situations.
'If' clause - past simple + , + result clause - would + verb (conditional tense)
Examples of Unreal Situations
He would make a larger commission if he were to reorganize his leads.
The room rates would be lower if I were the director of the hotel.
I would wash that tablecloth if I had the right detergent.
A tomato would be a vegetable if Ronald Reagan were God.
Exception!
'Were' is often used for all subjects in the second conditional.
Example:
I would give away comps if I were in charge of marketing the concert.
I would hire a new executive chef if I were in charge of hiring.
Differences Between First and Second Conditional
The choice between the first or second conditional is often based on the probability of a given situation. If something is truly possible, choose the first conditional.
Example:
How will we provide a casual dining experience if we don't install a buffet?
Security will tighten if there is another terrorist attack.
If something is not very possible or improbable, choose the second conditional.
Example:
The restaurateur would open on a Friday if he had a choice.
The airline CEO would personally profit if the government bailed out the airline.
Do not use a comma, when placing the result clause first.
Amusement parks would gain customers if the rides were more exciting.
A tomato would be a vegetable if Ronald Reagan were God.