If She Was or If She Were?  Which is Correct?

Understanding when to use “if she was” versus “if she were” can be a bit tricky for many English learners. These two phrases appear to be quite similar, but they have distinct uses depending on the type of conditional sentence you are constructing.

Getting this right will not only improve your grammar but also make your English sound more natural and confident.

Whether you’re writing essays, crafting business emails, or just improving your conversational English, understanding these subtle differences will elevate your skills.

Understanding Conditional Sentences: The Basics

Before we dive deep into the difference between “if she was” and “if she were”, let’s first establish what conditional sentences are and why they’re so important in English.

What Are Conditional Sentences?

Conditional sentences are sentences that describe a situation where one event depends on another. These sentences typically follow an if-then structure, though the “then” part is often implied. Conditional sentences allow us to express hypothetical situations, possibilities, and consequences.

For example:

• If it rains, I’ll bring an umbrella. (First Conditional: real possibility)
• If I were you, I’d take the job. (Second Conditional: hypothetical situation)

Types of Conditional Sentences

There are several types of conditional sentences, and each has its own rules regarding verb tenses. The most common types are:

• Zero Conditional: Used for general truths or facts.
• First Conditional: Used for real future situations.
• Second Conditional: Used for hypothetical or unlikely present or future situations.
• Third Conditional: Used for hypothetical past situations.
• Mixed Conditional: Combines two different types of conditionals.

The Grammatical Difference: ‘Was’ vs. ‘Were’ in Conditional Sentences

Now, let’s focus on the core of our topic: the difference between “was” and “were” in conditional sentences. This is where things often get confusing, but once you understand the rules, it becomes much clearer.

‘Was’ and ‘Were’ in Real vs. Unreal Conditions

• “Was” is used when talking about real or factual situations in the past.
• “Were” is typically used in unreal or hypothetical situations, especially in the subjunctive mood.

Real Condition Example (Using ‘Was’)

• If she was at the party, she probably saw him.
  In this case, the speaker is talking about a real possibility, something that could have happened in the past.

Unreal Condition Example (Using ‘Were’)

• If she were at the party, she would have seen him.
  Here, the speaker is imagining a hypothetical scenario—something that didn’t actually happen. “Were” is used because the situation is unreal.

The Role of the Subjunctive Mood in English Grammar

The subjunctive mood is a grammatical feature used to talk about situations that are not real, like hypothetical scenarios, wishes, or suggestions. In conditional sentences, we use “were” instead of “was” to reflect these unreal or imagined situations.

For example:

When to Use ‘Were’ in Hypothetical Situations

The use of “were” in second and third conditionals helps express situations that are unlikely or impossible. This is one of the hallmarks of the subjunctive mood in English.

Real vs. Unreal Conditions: When to Use ‘Was’ and ‘Were’

Let’s summarize when you should use “was” and “were” in conditional sentences. Here’s a simple guide:

Condition Type	Use of ‘Was’	Use of ‘Were’
Real Conditions	If she was at the meeting, she would have heard the announcement.
Unreal Conditions		If she were at the meeting, she would have heard the announcement.
Past Unreal		If I were you, I would have acted differently.

Hypothetical Situations: Why ‘Were’ Takes Precedence

In hypothetical situations, “were” is preferred, even with singular subjects like “she” or “I”. This might seem odd since we normally use “was” with singular subjects in real conditions, but the subjunctive mood requires “were” for all subjects in unreal situations.

For example:

Using “were” for hypothetical scenarios adds clarity that the situation is unreal and not grounded in reality.

‘If She Was’ in the Indicative Mood: When Does It Work?

The indicative mood is used for stating facts, and you’ll typically see “was” used in real conditions in the past.

For example:

• If she was late, she missed the bus.
  This is a factual statement in the past where “was” works because it’s describing an actual situation that may have happened.

The Key Difference Between ‘If She Was’ and ‘If She Were’

In short:

• “Was” is used in real situations that could have occurred.
• “Were” is used for hypothetical situations or unreal conditions.

When Are ‘If She Was’ and ‘If She Were’ Interchangeable?

Correct (Standard):

• If I were you, I’d go.

Incorrect (Nonstandard):

• If I was you, I’d go.

Misconceptions About ‘Was’ vs. ‘Were’: Clearing the Confusion

Myth #1: “If I was” is always correct.

• Fact: “If I was” is only correct when referring to real situations or events that actually occurred.

Myth #2: “Were” can never be used in real situations.

• Fact: While “were” is most commonly used in hypothetical situations, it’s perfectly correct in the subjunctive mood even with singular subjects.

Improving Your English: Practical Tips for Mastering Conditionals

Conclusion: Confidently Choosing Between ‘If She Was’ and ‘If She Were’

Mastering the difference between “if she was” and “if she were” is crucial for speaking and writing accurately in English. The main takeaway: use “was” for real conditions in the past and “were” for unreal or hypothetical situations.

Keep practicing and applying these rules, and soon you’ll find yourself using these phrases confidently, whether you’re speaking to friends or writing professional emails.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use “if she was” in hypothetical situations?
No, “if she was” should be used only for real situations in the past. For hypothetical or unreal situations, always use “if she were.”

Q2: What’s the difference between “was” and “were” in conditionals?
“Was” is used for real situations, while “were” is used for hypothetical or unreal conditions, especially in the subjunctive mood.

Q3: Is “if she was” grammatically incorrect?
Not at all! “If she was” is grammatically correct when referring to real past situations, but in hypothetical conditions, you should use “if she were.”

Q4: Can I use “if I were” with singular subjects?
Yes, in hypothetical situations, “were” is used for all subjects, even singular ones like “I” or “she.”