Modals in the third conditional

Main clause

We can use modals other than would in the main clause of a sentence in the third conditional:

If I had had the right tools, I could have fixed my bike. (ability)
If the weather had been worse, they might not have reached the top. (possibility)

If-clause

We can use could + perfect infinitive in the if-clause to express ability or possibility:

If he could have got to the station on time, he might have caught the train. (ability)
If I could have known this would happen, I'd never have started dating him. (possibility)

Were to + perfect infinitive is also possible in the if-clause; however, it is less common:

If he were to have asked me, I would have said yes.

Rate this page

up
617 users like this page.