"Would you mind if I opened the window?" is found for the usage of the word "mind" in Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English. The dictionary explains that it is spoken and used when making a polite request.
In the same dictionary, "Would you mind if I open a window?" is also found for the usage of the word "mind."
Are these both acceptable and the same in meaning?
"Would you mind if I opened the window?"
"Would you mind if I open the window?"
I couldn't find the second example "open the window" in LDCE either, but, then again, I have their online version only.
In answer to your question, yes, both "open the window" and "opened the window" are acceptable English.
The
Standard (i.e., formal language, including spoken and written English) houses a present tense verb. The reason being, a polite request is asked before the act takes place, so a present tense verb is used:
- Would you mind if I open the window?
The spoken-form houses a past tense verb. The reason, analogy: elsewhere in the grammar there is a similar structure,
would +
if + past tense (See type 2 conditionals):
- Would you mind if I opened the window?
From a semantic standpoint, there isn't a difference in meaning between
would you mind if I open the window and
would you mind if I opened the window. Unless, that is, you want to be pedantic about it:
Sam: Would you mind if I opened the window?
Pat: Why are you asking me after the fact? You've already opened the window, right?
The difference, if there actually is one, is subscription: prescription (what you are told you should say) and description (what you actually say). Who is right? Everyone.
From an academic standpoint, use formal language in writing and on formal occasions (e.g., in an exam) and use English elsewhere.
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Note,
Posted by svartnik
CalifJim and Casi are no just some, in my opinion. They are highly respected and trusted contributors in EF and UE, respectively.
FYI: I am Casiopea. ;-)
