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The Third Conditional

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The third conditional is quite complex. Read the information below to help you understand it, then see if you can convert the following sentences into the third conditional. Good luck!

The third conditional is used:

To talk about 'impossible' conditions. They are impossible because they happened in the past and we cannot change them.

It is formed in the following way:

If + past perfect, would have + past participle

"If I had known you were going to the cinema, I would have gone too."

Or the structure can be reversed:

Would have + past participle + if + past perfect

"I would have gone too If I had known you were going to the cinema."

Also note: would can be replaced by could or might.

Third Conditional Sentences

Now see if you can convert the following sentences (in this case use would for each sentence). Write your sentences in the comments area:

1. If I (knew) the queen was visiting our town, I (go) to see her.
2. If I (revise) for the test, I (do) better.
3. If I (saw) Michael at the party, I (talk) to him.
4. I (go) out tonight if I (have) some money.
5. I (not/be) angry if you (tell) me sooner.
6. I (understand) them if they (speak) a bit slower.
7. If I (realise) you were coming, I (tidy)!
8. If I (not/be) to Colombia, I (know) what an amazing country it was.

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