There are many times in life when we talk not about what is actually happening, but what could happen in a hypothetical situation — something that hasn’t really happened, but what happens in your dreams or imagination.

This hypothetical situation relies on a condition, using or implying the word “if”.

Using the verb “would” makes it clear to your listener or reader that you are talking about a situation that hasn’t actually taken place.

Examples

“If I won the lottery, the first thing I would do is buy a house.”
“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”
“I wouldn’t have believed it if I didn’t see it with my own two eyes!”
“Wouldn’t it be great if it snowed and the exam was canceled?!”
“Would you want to join us if you’re in town?”
“He would’ve loved to have been here if he could.”