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What Would Have Happened

Third Conditional

The third, or 'past', conditional is used to imagine past outcomes different than what actually took place. This conditional is used to express what would have been different if a person had done something differently.

'If' clause - past perfect + , + result clause - would + have + verb (conditional perfect tense)

Examples of Past Unreal Outcomes

I would reject the process if he'd told me the byproduct was toxic.

She would have ordered the bulk materials if we'd reported the shortage.

They would have lowered the number of machine-hours if Sam had told them the risks.

If he'd worked in the bonded warehouse, he would have known about the shipment.

Do not use a comma, when placing the result clause first.

They would have lowered the number of machine-hours if Sam had told them the risks.

She would have ordered the bulk materials if we'd reported the shortage.

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