The Second Conditional - variations

RULE: the 2^nd conditional = If + simple past + would/could & bare infinitive

e.g. If I asked him, he would say yes.

A. Variation to the rule!

Sometimes 2^nd conditional = If = simple past = simple past.

When? When we refer to habitual (routine) actions in the past.

Examples:

If there was a problem, he always sorted it out..

Of she was interrupted, she got very annoyed.

When I was young, if you talked in class, the teacher told you off.

B. Another Variation to the rule!

Sometimes 2^nd conditional = If + past continuous = would/could & bare infinitive

When? When we refer to a situation which continues for an extended period.

If we were going by train, I would feel much happier.

If my car was working, I would/could drive you to the airport.

If I was living in Melbourne, I would have a better job.

Note: You could stick to the basic rule

e.g. If I went by train, I would feel much happier.

If my car worked, I would/could drive you to the airport

If I lived in Melbourne, I would have a better job.