Part 3: Mixed conditionals - English In A Minute

We usually use mixed conditionals to talk about a past imaginary situation that has a present imaginary result.

For example: If I had eaten breakfast, I wouldn't be hungry now.

The first phrase uses the same structure as the third conditional – if + past perfect.

This is because it is a past imaginary situation.

It's not true. I didn't eat breakfast.

The second phrase uses the same structure as the second conditional – would + infinitive (no to).

This is because it is a present imaginary result.

It's not true. I am hungry because I didn't eat breakfast.

Don't forget to put the comma in after the 'if' clause.