I've been wondering what the correct usage of IF is.
When we use IF, is the linking verb WERE should be used?
For example,
If that was the case,
If that were the case,
which of the two is correct?
Thank you.
A NON-TEACHER'S OPINION
Hello, Yura Reiri.
(1) You have asked an excellent question. This is how I
understand it.
(2)
It all depends on what you wish to say.
(3) If you are talking about something that is definitely
not real or possible at
the present time, "good" English requires
"were":
Martha's mother: I don't care what anyone else says. I think that
you are very beautiful.
Martha: If that
were the case, I would have a boyfriend, and I don't.
(We should use the so-called subjunctive here, for Martha is -- sadly --
not beautiful, and she knows it. If I were beautiful = I am not beautiful.
For example, I am an old man. If I were younger (I am not), I would
have better health. But since I am old, my health is getting worse.)
(4)
Sometimes "if that WAS the case" is actually the "good" English.
This is difficult to explain, but I shall try my best.
George: What's wrong? Are you angry with me?
Mona: Yes, I am.
George: Why? What did I do?
Mona: Remember
last week's party?
George: Yes, I do.
Mona: Well, you were very rude to me.
George: I do not remember being rude to you
last week.
Mona: Well, you were.
George: Listen, Mona, if that
WAS the case (that I
was actually
rude to you
last week), I now apologize to you.
(If that
was the case = if something like that actually happened in the
past.)
Sincerely yours,
James
